Homemade Campbell Chunky Soup Old Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup Can Recipe: Nourishing & Customizable

Introduction

Campbell's Chunky Old Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup has been a comfort food staple for generations, offering a hearty blend of tender beef, crisp vegetables, and a rich, savory broth. This homemade version captures the essence of the original while allowing for healthier choices and personal touches, making it a nutritious and customizable alternative.

Why Make It at Home?

Creating your own soup at home offers several advantages. You can use fresh, organic ingredients to enhance flavor and nutritional value, reduce sodium content, and tailor the recipe to suit your dietary preferences. It's also cost-effective and allows for creativity, ensuring every spoonful meets your taste expectations.

Personal Anecdote

As a child, I cherished the warmth of Campbell's soup on chilly days. Now, as an adult, I sought to recreate that comfort with a healthier twist, leading me to develop this recipe that retains the original's charm while incorporating wholesome ingredients.

Recipe Details

• **Prep Time:20 minutes
• **Cook Time:45 minutes
• **Total Time:65 minutes
• **Yield:4 servings

Ingredients

Meat & Vegetables:

• 1 lb (450g) beef stew meat (lean or chuck)
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
• 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 stalks celery, chopped
• 1 (14.5 oz/410g) can diced tomatoes
• 1 cup (120g) frozen peas

Broth & Spices:

• 4 cups (960ml) low-sodium beef broth
• 2 tbsp (30g) tomato paste
• 1 tsp (5g) dried thyme
• 1 tsp (5g) dried rosemary
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 tsp (5g) garlic powder
• 1 tsp (5g) onion powder
• 1 tbsp (15ml) Worcestershire sauce (low-sodium)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional Thickening Agent:

• 1 tbsp (15g) cornstarch (mixed with 2 tbsp/30ml water)

Instructions

• Brown the Beef: Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high. Add beef, browning on all sides. Remove and set aside.
• Sauté Aromatics: Reduce heat to medium. Add onion, garlic, and celery, sautéing until tender.
• Add Spices & Tomato Paste: Stir in spices and tomato paste, cooking for 1-2 minutes.
• Combine Broth & Worcestershire: Pour in broth and Worcestershire sauce, stirring to combine.
• Simmer Beef: Return beef to pot, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Simmer, covered, for 30 minutes.
• Add Vegetables: Stir in carrots, potatoes, and bay leaf. Simmer, covered, for 15 minutes.
• Incorporate Tomatoes & Peas: Add diced tomatoes and peas. Simmer, uncovered, for 10-15 minutes.
• Thicken (Optional): Stir in cornstarch mixture if desired, cooking until thickened.
• Season & Serve: Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Remove bay leaf and serve hot.

Storage Instructions

Refrigerate for up to 5 days or freeze for 3 months. Reheat gently, adding broth if needed.

Variations

• Low-Sodium: Use homemade broth and reduce added salt.
• Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
• Herb Variations: Substitute thyme with rosemary or add fresh parsley.
• Vegan: Replace beef with plant-based protein and use vegetable broth.

Special Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Optional: immersion blender for texture adjustment

Pro Tips

• Enhance Flavor: Brown beef thoroughly for depth.
• Texture Control: Add vegetables later to maintain crispness.
• Resting Soup: Let sit 10 minutes before serving for melded flavors.

Nutritional Comparison

FAQ

• Customization: Add zucchini or spinach for extra veggies.
• Adjusting Saltiness: Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
• Storage: Freeze in portions for easy meals.
• Thickening: Use less broth for a thicker consistency.
• Reheating: Add water if soup becomes too thick.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with crusty bread or over rice.
• Use as a base for other soups or stews.
• Pair with a green salad for a balanced meal.

Conclusion

This homemade soup offers a healthier, customizable alternative to the store-bought version, capturing the comforting essence while allowing for personal touches. Enjoy the rich flavors and nourishing benefits of this made-with-love dish.