Potato soup

Instructions:

1. Sear the Beef: Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the beef stew meat, seasoning with salt and pepper, and cook until browned on all sides. Remove the beef and set aside.
2. Sauté Vegetables: In the same pot, add onions and garlic, and cook until softened and fragrant, about 3 minutes.
3. Combine Ingredients: Return the beef to the pot, then add the carrots, potatoes, beef broth, water, diced tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and bay leaves. Bring everything to a boil.
4. Simmer: Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the stew simmer for 1 ½ to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
5. Add Peas and Green Beans: In the final 15 minutes of cooking, add peas and green beans to the stew. Continue to simmer until the vegetables are cooked through.
6. Adjust Seasoning: Taste the stew and adjust seasoning if necessary. Remove the bay leaves before serving.
7. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot with a side of crusty bread or over mashed potatoes for a hearty meal.

Tips for Success:

• Slow Cooking Option: If you prefer using a slow cooker, simply brown the beef, then transfer all ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
• Thicker Stew: If you like a thicker broth, add a slurry of 1 tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of water in the last 30 minutes of cooking.

This Hearty Vegetable and Beef Stew is a perfect dish to enjoy on cold days or whenever you’re craving a comforting, filling meal. Its rich, robust flavors come together beautifully, making it a true family favorite.

---

Creamy Potato Soup Recipe: Comfort in a Bowl

When you’re craving a simple yet satisfying dish, nothing beats a warm bowl of Creamy Potato Soup. This recipe is rich, velvety, and full of flavor—perfect for those cozy nights when you want to indulge in a comforting meal. Plus, it’s easy to prepare, using ingredients you likely already have on hand.

Ingredients:

• 6 large potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 2 cups milk (or cream for a richer soup)
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp dried thyme (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
• 4 strips of bacon, cooked and crumbled (optional)
• Chopped chives for garnish

Instructions:

1. Cook Potatoes and Onions: In a large pot, add the diced potatoes, chopped onion, and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
2. Blend the Soup: Once the potatoes are soft, use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend only half of the soup or use a potato masher for a more rustic finish.
3. Add Milk and Seasonings: Stir in the milk (or cream), butter, garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper. Simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes until the soup thickens slightly.
4. Optional Add-ins: If desired, stir in shredded cheddar cheese for an extra layer of richness. Let the cheese melt fully into the soup.
5. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls, and top with crumbled bacon and chopped chives for a savory garnish. Serve with a side of crusty bread or a grilled cheese sandwich.

Tips for the Perfect Potato Soup:

• Make it Dairy-Free: For a dairy-free version, use plant-based milk and skip the butter or substitute it with a non-dairy alternative.
• Thicker Soup: To thicken the soup further, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and stir it in during the final simmer.
• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months.

This Creamy Potato Soup is the ultimate comfort food, whether enjoyed on its own or as part of a larger meal. Its creamy texture and satisfying flavor will have you coming back for seconds!

Both these recipes are sure to warm your heart and fill your kitchen with the comforting aromas of homemade goodness.