New Year’s “Clean the Fridge” Beef Soup

So this soup is not only a perfect, easy first-of-the-year soup, but as we look at all of the bits and pieces of vegetables in our fridge and freezer, we think, what will I do with three carrots? But it is also an homage to young Whitt and Paddy in their lean bachelor days.  When I met them both almost 30 years ago, a version of this soup was their go-to once-a-week meal that lasted them for days!  I have taken the idea and made it my own.  Enjoy.

  • 1 pound ground sirloin
  • 2 cups chopped carrots
  • 2 cups chopped potatoes (any kind you have. I used large red ones and left the skins on)
  • 1 onion diced
  • 6 cups of beef broth
  • 1 8-ounce can of tomato sauce
  • 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce 
  • 1 tsp celery salt
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 tsp or more to taste black pepper (I used freshly cracked)
  • 1 cup frozen peas
  • 1 cup frozen corn
  • 1 cup frozen cut green beans

Please feel free to use any other veggies that look lonely in your fridge; the more, the merrier!

Brown the beef.  Add the onions and carrots and cook for a few minutes. Add the Worcestershire sauce, tomato sauce, beef broth, and seasonings. Then, immediately add the potatoes and frozen vegetables.  Bring to a boil and then simmer for 30 minutes until all veggies are tender. That is all! Your fridge and bellies will thank me as the New Year and winter begin.