Sunday, September 25, 2011

Saturday, September 24, 2011

Introducing the Author and a Recipe for Vegetable Beef Soup

I started cooking out of necessity as I think most people do. As I continued to improve my skills and share my growing ability with others, cooking became more and more of a hobby. I have learned sharing food with others is one of the greatest joys in life. Also, a delicious meal doesn't always have to be fancy or difficult to prepare. I will be sharing some of my favorite recipes, most of which are easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy. I hope you will share your thoughts and ideas. I am going to begin with a recipe for Vegetable Beef Soup.

Ingredients:
2 lbs. of lean ground beef
1 48 oz. can vegetable juice
1 can Mexican seasoned corn
1 can green beans-drained
1 can Italian stewed tomatoes
2 large carrots peeled and sliced on the diagonal
1 large baking potato and cubed
1 large onion peeled and diced
Seasonings to taste: Garlic powder, season salt, season pepper, and dried oregano

Directions:
In a 6 quart pot or dutch oven, brown ground beef until all moisture has evaporated. If you use lean (7% fat) ground beef, there will be no need to drain off fat. It will carmelize onto the meat, adding flavor.
Add vegetable juice, corn, green beans, and tomatoes. Bring this mixture to a low boil. Add seasonings to taste. Reduce heat to a simmer. Simmer about 30 minutes then adjust seasoning if needed. Add carrot, potato, and onion. Continue to cook until vegetables are done.
Cornbread is a good side to serve with this.
Enjoy!