Evangeline Parish Corn & Beef Soup: A Satisfying Cajun Delight
Preparation Time: 25 minutes
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 4
Description
Delve into the heart of Cajun cooking with this uncomplicated and well-seasoned Evangeline Parish Corn & Beef Soup, a dish that captures the essence of home-cooked comfort. This soup not only warms the soul but also fills the belly, making it a perfect choice for a weeknight supper. The combination of ground beef, corn, and aromatic herbs delivers a flavorful experience that can be enhanced by the addition of cooked rice, creating a more substantial meal. Just remember to remove the bay leaf before serving to ensure a delightful dining experience.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 247.8 |
| Total Fat | 12.9 g |
| Saturated Fat | 3.9 g |
| Cholesterol | 38.9 mg |
| Sodium | 694.7 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 21.3 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.9 g |
| Sugars | 5.1 g |
| Protein | 14.4 g |
Ingredients
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 1 | Olive oil |
| 1/2 | Onion (chopped) |
| 3 1/2 | Garlic (minced) |
| 1/2 | Ground beef |
| 2 | Beef broth |
| 2 | Vegetable broth |
| 1 | Water |
| 1/4 | Dried oregano |
| 1 | Bay leaf |
| 1 | Dried thyme |
| 2 | Tomato paste |
| 1/2 | Salt |
| 1/2 | Cayenne pepper |
| 1 | Green bell pepper (diced) |
Instructions
-
Combine the Broths and Spices
In a large saucepan, combine the beef broth, vegetable broth, water, corn, dried oregano, bay leaf, dried thyme, tomato paste, salt, cayenne pepper, and diced green bell pepper. Stir well to combine all the ingredients, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. -
Bring to a Boil and Simmer
Bring the mixture to a vigorous boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer gently for approximately 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to develop and intensify. -
Sauté the Aromatics
Meanwhile, in a separate medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over low heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing gently for about 10 minutes or until the onion becomes transparent and the garlic turns a lovely golden hue, being careful not to let it brown excessively. -
Brown the Ground Beef
Increase the heat to medium and add the ground beef to the onion and garlic mixture. Cook, stirring frequently, until the beef is thoroughly browned and no longer pink, ensuring it is well combined with the aromatics. -
Combine the Mixtures
Once the beef is browned, carefully add the beef-onion mixture to the simmering broth mixture. Stir well to incorporate, allowing the soup to absorb the rich flavors of the meat. -
Final Simmer
Continue to simmer the combined soup on low heat for an additional 20 minutes. During this time, the flavors will deepen further, creating a satisfying and hearty dish. -
Adjust Seasoning
Before serving, taste the soup for saltiness and adjust as needed. If you find the soup too thick, feel free to thin it out with a little more water to reach your desired consistency. -
Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the steaming hot soup into bowls, taking care to remove the bay leaf before serving. This delightful Cajun-style soup pairs wonderfully with a side of crusty bread or a light salad, offering a fulfilling meal that is sure to please the whole family. -
Leftovers
Keep in mind that any leftover soup thickens slightly overnight, enhancing its flavor and making it an even more enjoyable dish the next day. Should you wish to thin it out, simply add a splash of water when reheating.
Conclusion
This Evangeline Parish Corn & Beef Soup exemplifies the charm of Cajun cooking, bringing warmth and comfort to your dinner table. With its rich flavors and heartiness, it’s an ideal choice for a satisfying weeknight meal that can easily be made in advance. Embrace the spirit of Louisiana cuisine with this delightful dish, and enjoy the joy of sharing it with family and friends.
