Ranger Frank Soup

Ranger Frank Soupe

By[email protected]

This hearty and comforting soup, affectionately named Ranger Frank Soup, is a delicious blend of robust flavors and wholesome ingredients. Perfect for campfire dinners, family meals, or a cozy night in, it combines fresh vegetables, beans, and savory meat (or plant-based alternatives) for a filling and nutritious dish.

Ingredients
  • Protein:
    • 1 lb (450 g) ground beef, turkey, or plant-based ground meat
    • 1 tbsp olive oil (if needed)
  • Vegetables:
    • 1 medium onion, diced
    • 2 carrots, sliced
    • 2 celery stalks, sliced
    • 3 cloves garlic, minced
    • 1 large potato, diced (or substitute with sweet potato)
  • Canned Goods:
    • 1 (15 oz/425 g) can of diced tomatoes (with juice)
    • 1 (15 oz/425 g) can of kidney beans or black beans, drained and rinsed
    • 1 (8 oz/227 g) can of tomato sauce
  • Liquid:
    • 4 cups (1 liter) beef, chicken, or vegetable broth
    • 1 cup water (optional for thinner soup)
  • Seasonings:
    • 1 tsp smoked paprika
    • 1 tsp dried thyme
    • 1 tsp ground cumin
    • 1/2 tsp black pepper
    • Salt to taste
    • 1 bay leaf
  • Optional Add-Ins:
    • 1/2 cup cooked barley, rice, or small pasta
    • A handful of fresh spinach or kale, chopped
  • Garnish:
    • Fresh parsley, chopped
    • Crusty bread for serving
Instructions

1. Prepare the Base:

  1. Place a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat and let it warm up.
  2.  If using ground meat, cook it until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain excess fat if necessary. For plant-based meat, cook with olive oil. Remove from pot and set aside.

2. Sauté the Vegetables:

  1. In the same pot, add olive oil if needed.
  2. Sauté onions, carrots, and celery until softened (about 5 minutes).
  3. Add garlic and sauté for an additional minute.

3. Build the Soup:

  1. Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, broth, and water (if using).
  2. Add potatoes, beans, browned meat (or plant-based alternative), and seasonings (smoked paprika, thyme, cumin, black pepper, salt, and bay leaf).

4. Simmer:

  1. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low.
  2. Cover and simmer for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until potatoes are tender.

5. Optional Add-Ins:

  1. If adding cooked grains or pasta, stir them in during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
  2. Stir in the leafy greens just before serving, letting them wilt gently.

6. Serve:

  1. Remove the bay leaf.
  2. Spoon into bowls and top with fresh parsley.
  3. Serve hot with crusty bread or crackers.
Tips

Make Ahead: This soup develops even more flavor the next day!

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Vegetarian Option: Use plant-based meat or omit the protein altogether and add extra beans or lentils.

  • Flavor Boost: A dash of Worcestershire sauce or a squeeze of lemon at the end enhances the flavors.

Ranger Frank Soup is a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for fueling adventures or simply savoring a moment of comfort. 🌟🍲

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