Hearty Vegetable and Ground Beef Soup

Ingredients

1 lb (450g) ground beef

2 large carrots, peeled and sliced

2-3 celery stalks, chopped

2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced

1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes

1 small onion, diced (optional)

3 garlic cloves, minced

4 cups beef broth or water

1 tsp dried thyme

1 tsp dried oregano

Salt and pepper to taste

1-2 tbsp olive oil for cooking

Instructions

1. Cook the Ground Beef: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until browned. Drain any excess fat.
2. Sauté Vegetables: Add the diced onion, garlic, carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
3. Add Potatoes and Tomatoes: Stir in the diced potatoes and canned tomatoes (with juice). Cook for another 2-3 minutes.
4. Add Broth and Spices: Pour in the beef broth and add thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
5. Simmer: Cover the pot and simmer for 20-30 minutes, until the vegetables are tender.
6. Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Check the seasoning and adjust as needed. You can also add more broth if the soup is too thick for your liking.
7. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy hot.