Steak and Potato Soup

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    # Steak and Potato Soup
    
    Nothing warms the soul quite like a hearty bowl of steak and potato soup. I vividly recall the chilly evenings spent at my grandmother’s house, tucked under a blanket, as the delicious aroma of this soup simmered on the stove. My grandmother practiced the art of comfort food, and this stew was one of her greatest creations. The rich flavors and creamy texture combined with tender beef made it a perfect family treat. 
    
    The process of making steak and potato soup transformed the kitchen into a canvas of flavors. Each ingredient played a pivotal role, bringing together a symphony of tastes that delighted everyone. Whenever I whip up this dish, I feel an instant connection to those comforting moments from my past. Steak and potato soup offers not just nourishment but also a sense of nostalgia. 
    
    This recipe stands out because of its simplicity and robustness. Using quality ingredients leads to an irresistible dish that makes weeknight dinners feel special. With every spoonful, you savor the tender meat, the creamy potatoes, and the wholesome broth. There’s something truly magical about how all these elements work in harmony to create a delightful meal. 
    
    Steak and potato soup comes together effortlessly, making it an ideal choice for busy days. Its ability to satisfy both hunger and the heart makes it a staple recipe in many households. Each time I prepare it, I’m reminded why this dish holds a cherished place in my culinary repertoire. 
    
    ## Steak and Potato Soup Fundamentals
    
    ### Preparation/setup
    
    Start by gathering all your ingredients for an easy cooking experience. Having everything ready allows you to focus on the cooking process without interruptions. Grab a large pot or a dutch oven for this recipe. The dutch oven is perfect for even cooking and retaining heat, making your soup rich and flavorful.
    
    Once you have all your ingredients prepped, it’s essential to properly handle the beef and vegetables. Cut the beef stew meat into manageable chunks, and make sure to dice the onions and mince the garlic. Prep the russet potatoes by peeling and dicing them as well. Keep in mind; the size of the potato pieces isn’t critical since they will break down during cooking. The goal is to have everything at hand before you start cooking.
    
    ### Ingredients
    
    Let’s dive into the ingredients that will make this steak and potato soup unforgettable:
    
    - 1.5 pounds of beef stew meat
    - 1 medium yellow onion (diced)
    - 3 cloves of garlic (minced or pressed)
    - 2 pounds of russet potatoes (peeled and diced)
    - 1 tablespoon of all-purpose flour
    - 3 cups of chicken stock
    - 1 cup of cheddar cheese (freshly grated/shredded)
    - 3/4 cup of heavy cream
    
    These straightforward ingredients create a comforting dish filled with flavor. The beef provides the necessary protein and richness, while the potatoes add heartiness. The combination of heavy cream and cheddar cheese ensures a creamy finish that ties the entire soup together.
    
    ### Directions
    
    Begin by heating a little oil in your large pot or dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once the pot is hot, add the chunks of beef stew meat. Sear them on one or two sides without overcrowding the pot. This initial step enhances the flavor, making each bite delicious.
    
    After searing the beef, remove it from the pot and set it aside. Now it’s time to add the diced onion to the pot. If needed, drizzle in a bit more oil to ensure the onions have enough moisture to soften. Add the minced garlic and sauté until both the onions and garlic start to wilt and turn golden brown.
    
    Next, sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the mixture. Sauté it for about a minute to cook the flour slightly and develop its flavor. Now, pour in the three cups of chicken stock and stir to combine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
    
    Add the diced potatoes and the seared beef back into the pot. You want to avoid submerging the ingredients completely since the liquid won’t cover the tops while the potatoes remain raw. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then cover the pot and reduce the heat to low. Allow it to cook for about an hour or until the beef is tender. 
    
    If you're using a dutch oven, an option is to place the covered pot in a preheated oven at 350°F for 1 to 1.5 hours. After the beef has reached tenderness, remove the pot from the heat.
    
    Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese, mixing well until the cheese melts into the soup. As you stir, you’ll notice the potatoes start to break down and create a creamy texture. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Let it cool slightly before serving up this delightful bowl of steak and potato soup.
    
    
    Steak and Potato Soup
    ## Technique for Steak and Potato Soup ### Technique Perfecting your technique in making steak and potato soup can elevate this dish. Focus on each step, giving special attention to the initial searing of the meat. This step adds a depth of flavor that will permeate the entire soup. Using high heat ensures a good crust forms on the beef chunks, locking in the juices and flavor. When cooking the onions and garlic, be patient. Allow them to caramelize slightly, which enhances their natural sweetness. Incorporating the flour correctly is vital, as it helps thicken the soup without lumps. Make sure to stir continuously when adding the chicken stock to achieve a smooth base before adding other ingredients. ### Tips/tricks A few tips can make your steak and potato soup even better. First, consider using a mix of different types of potatoes for varied texture and flavor. Yukon Golds can add a hint of sweetness that complements the savory elements of the beef and stock. For a little kick, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or your favorite herbs like thyme or rosemary when stirring in the cream and cheese. These small additions can enhance the flavor profile without overpowering the essential taste of the stew. Always taste your soup before serving. Adjustments with salt, pepper, or additional herbs can make a world of difference. This final touch will bring all the flavors together beautifully. ## Perfecting Results for Steak and Potato Soup ### Perfecting results To achieve the perfect steak and potato soup, pay attention to cooking times. The beef requires a bit more time to become tender, but the potatoes will cook faster. The key is maintaining a gentle simmer to ensure that the potatoes soften without disintegrating completely into the broth. Another aspect to consider is the consistency. If you prefer a thicker soup, you might want to blend a small portion of the soup to create a creamy base before mixing it back in. Just blend a few cups and stir it in for a wonderfully thick texture. ### Troubleshooting/variations Sometimes, recipes don’t go as planned. If the beef takes longer to tenderize, just be patient. It will eventually soften with continued cooking. If you find the soup too thick, you can add a splash more chicken stock or water until you reach your desired consistency. Variations can also keep the dish exciting. You might substitute the cheddar cheese with a different variety, like pepper jack, to introduce spiciness or a tangy flavor. If you want a heartier version, feel free to add additional vegetables like carrots or green beans. Just remember to adjust cooking times accordingly based on what you add. ## Serving and Presentation of Steak and Potato Soup ### Serving/presentation Presenting your steak and potato soup can enhance the dining experience. Serve the soup in a deep bowl to showcase the hearty ingredients. Garnish with fresh herbs, like parsley or chives, to add a pop of color and freshness. A sprinkle of additional cheese on top can also entice your guests before they dive in. You can include a slice of crusty bread or baked rolls on the side for dipping. The bread will soak up the delicious broth and complement the richness of the soup perfectly. ### Pairings/storage Steak and potato soup pairs well with a variety of sides. Serve it alongside a simple green salad to balance its hearty nature. You could also offer a light vinaigrette or a creamy dressing to complement the flavors of the soup. When it comes to storage, this soup keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for several days. The flavors continue to meld and improve as it sits. Reheat it slowly on the stove and add a bit of extra cream or stock if it thickens too much during storage. Steak and potato soup can also be frozen for extended storage. Portion it out into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion when freezing. This method makes it easy to enjoy a comforting bowl of soup whenever the craving hits. ## Conclusion Steak and potato soup brings warmth and comfort with every bite. The perfect combination of tender beef, creamy potatoes, and rich broth creates a dish that’s heartwarming for both family dinners and cozy evenings. With simple ingredients and straightforward techniques, this recipe allows everyone to enjoy a delicious meal. Whether served on a cold night or a casual get-together, steak and potato soup always delivers satisfaction.
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    Steak and Potato Soup

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    • Author: chloe
    • Prep Time: 15 minutes
    • Cook Time: 60 minutes
    • Total Time: 75 minutes
    • Yield: 4 servings
    • Category: Soup
    • Method: Stovetop
    • Cuisine: American
    • Diet: None

    Description

    A hearty and comforting steak and potato soup filled with tender beef, creamy potatoes, and rich broth.


    Ingredients

    • 1.5 pounds of beef stew meat
    • 1 medium yellow onion (diced)
    • 3 cloves of garlic (minced or pressed)
    • 2 pounds of russet potatoes (peeled and diced)
    • 1 tablespoon of all-purpose flour
    • 3 cups of chicken stock
    • 1 cup of cheddar cheese (freshly grated/shredded)
    • 3/4 cup of heavy cream


    Instructions

    1. Heat oil in a large pot or dutch oven over medium-high heat.
    2. Add chunks of beef stew meat and sear on one or two sides until browned. Remove and set aside.
    3. Add diced onion to the pot and drizzle in more oil if needed. Sauté until softened.
    4. Add minced garlic and sauté until both onions and garlic start to wilt and turn golden brown.
    5. Sprinkle all-purpose flour over the mixture and sauté for about a minute.
    6. Pour in chicken stock, stir to combine, and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom.
    7. Add diced potatoes and seared beef back into the pot, avoiding complete submersion.
    8. Bring to a gentle simmer, cover, and reduce heat to low. Cook for about an hour or until beef is tender.
    9. Stir in heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese until melted. Adjust seasoning if needed.
    10. Let cool slightly before serving.

    Notes

    For added flavor, consider using a mix of different types of potatoes or adding herbs like thyme or rosemary.

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