This robust “Forgotten” Minestrone is the ultimate comfort food, blending tender chunks of lean beef stew meat with a vibrant medley of garden vegetables and protein-packed garbanzo beans. The base is built with a rich tomato broth, infused with the aromatic warmth of thyme and the savory depth of beef bouillon. As it simmers, the flavors meld together, creating a thick, satisfying soup that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. It&# 226;ÂÂs an ideal dish for meal prepping, as the taste actually improves after sitting in the fridge overnight. Serve it with a crusty baguette to soak up the delicious broth, and top with fresh parsley and sharp Parmesan cheese for a classic Italian finish. ItâÂÂs simple, economical, and deeply satisfying.
Forgotten” Minestrone
Description
This robust "Forgotten" Minestrone is the ultimate comfort food, blending tender chunks of lean beef stew meat with a vibrant medley of garden vegetables and protein-packed garbanzo beans. The base is built with a rich tomato broth, infused with the aromatic warmth of thyme and the savory depth of beef bouillon. As it simmers, the flavors meld together, creating a thick, satisfying soup that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. It&# 226;ÂÂs an ideal dish for meal prepping, as the taste actually improves after sitting in the fridge overnight. Serve it with a crusty baguette to soak up the delicious broth, and top with fresh parsley and sharp Parmesan cheese for a classic Italian finish. ItâÂÂs simple, economical, and deeply satisfying.Ingredients
Directions
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Heat oil or butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
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Add the chopped onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes.
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Add the lean beef stew meat to the pot and cook until browned on all sides.
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Stir in the water, cut-up tomatoes with their liquid, beef bouillon cube, garbanzo beans, zucchini, and macaroni.
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Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 1 hour, or until the beef and vegetables are tender and the pasta is cooked.
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Season with salt, pepper, ground thyme, and dried parsley to taste.
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Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 8
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 644.2kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 28.3g44%
- Saturated Fat 11.5g58%
- Cholesterol 121.2mg41%
- Sodium 12534.9mg523%
- Total Carbohydrate 42.6g15%
- Dietary Fiber 10.5g42%
- Sugars 9.5g
- Protein 53.0g106%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Storage: This soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors will deepen after a night in the fridge. It also freezes well for up to 3 months; note that the pasta may become soft upon reheating from frozen.
Variations: For a lighter version, substitute chicken bouillon and chicken thighs for the beef. You can also add other vegetables like carrots, celery, or spinach during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
Tip: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can mash a few of the garbanzo beans against the side of the pot before serving.
