Introduction:

A hot meal of this kind is just what’s needed on a cold day or when you want to have a satisfying dinner. All in one container, it mixes ground meat, variety of vegetables, pasta, and beans in a very tasty broth. With simplicity and taste combined therein, this will be one dish that will never leave your recipe book.

 

Ingredients:

1 pound (450 grams) ground beef or turkey

1 medium-sized onion diced

2 cloves garlic minced

2 carrots sliced

2 sticks celery chopped

1 green pepper chopped

1 can (15 oz/425g) crushed tomatoes

1 can (15 oz/425g) red kidney beans rinsed and drained

1 can (15 oz/425g) cannellini beans rinsed and drained.

4 cups (1 liter) beef or vegetable stock.

1 cup (240ml) tomato sauce.

¼ pound elbow macaroni uncooked ditalini pasta or;

1 teaspoon dried oregano,

Salt and pepper to taste,

Fresh parsley for garnish.

 

 

Instructions:

Brown the Meat: In a large pot cook till done the minced meat over medium heat. If necessary remove excess oil.

Add Vegetables: To the pot add diced onions, garlic cloves, diced carrots, celery stalks cut into circles and diced green bell pepper. Stir fry for 5-7 minutes to make them tender enough.

Mix the ingredients together: Toss in the diced tomatoes and tomato sauce, broth, oregano and basil. You should heat it until it begins boiling.

Simmer: Turn the heat down to low and let it simmer for twenty minutes so that the flavors will merge together.

Add Beans and Pasta: Put in the kidney beans, cannellini beans, and uncooked pasta. Keep cooking for 10-12 more minutes until pasta is just done.

Season and Serve: Add salt ad pepper to suit your taste. Ladle soup into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

 

 

Hints for Success:

Use Lean Meat: Instead of purchasing ground meat containing a lot of fat consider lean beef or turkey.

Don’t Overcook the Pasta: You can add it at the end while cooking so that it does not get soggy.

Fresh Herbs: If you can find them, use fresh herbs like basil and oregano for more flavor.

Make it Spicy: If you enjoy a little spice, add some crushed red pepper flakes.

 

 

Health Benefits:

Protein-Rich: By combining ground meat with beans one gets a good source of protein

Fiber: The presence of beans among other vegetables contributes to high fiber content thus enhancing digestion system

Nutrient-Dense: This variety of vegetables makes this dish rich in vitamins and minerals.

 

 

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

Calories: 350-400

Protein: 22-25g

Fat: 10-15g

Carbohydrates: 45-50g

Fiber: 8-10g

Sodium :800-1000mg

 

 

Alternatives and Substitutes:

Vegetarian Version: Use more beans instead of meat or a plant-based substitute for meat.

Different Pasta: Any small pasta shape like small shells or rotini will do.

Alternative Vegetables: Include zucchini, spinach, or peas to add some variety.

Broth Choices: For an alternative depth of taste, try using chicken broth; alternatively, mix beef with vegetable broth.

 

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Can I prepare this soup beforehand?A: Yes, it even improves as the flavors meld. Simply reheat either on the stove or in the microwave.

Q: Can I freeze this soup? A: Definitely. It should be cooled down completely before putting in freezer-safe containers. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Q: What can I serve with this soup? A: This hearty soup goes well with crusty bread or a simple side salad.

 

 

Conclusion:

This is not just a tasty but also versatile recipe for making a great meal at home. It’s an easy way to enjoy a nourishing dish full of taste – be it during cozy family dinner or busy weekdays’ meal prep option. Have a bowlful and feel the soothing heat!