Beefed-Up Bloody Mary Soup

Beefed-Up Bloody Mary Soup is a savory and spicy twist on the classic cocktail, transformed into a hearty and flavorful soup. This dish brings together the bold flavors of tomato, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce, with the richness of ground beef, creating a unique and satisfying meal. Perfect for those who enjoy a bit of a kick in their food, this soup is ideal for a cozy lunch or dinner. The combination of tender beef, zesty seasonings, and fresh vegetables makes it a delightful and warming option for any time of year. Serve it with crusty bread or a grilled cheese sandwich for a complete meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 celery stalk, diced
• 1 carrot, diced
• 4 cups tomato juice
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1-2 teaspoons hot sauce (adjust to taste)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon celery salt
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 tablespoon horseradish (optional)
• Fresh parsley or celery leaves, for garnish
• Lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions:

1. Cook the Ground Beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: Add the chopped onion, garlic, celery, and carrot to the pot. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the Tomato Base: Stir in the tomato juice, diced tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, lemon juice, celery salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Bring the mixture to a boil.
4. Simmer: Reduce the heat to low and simmer the soup for 20-25 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. If you like, stir in the horseradish for an extra kick.
5. Add the Broth: Pour in the beef broth and continue to simmer for another 10 minutes, or until the soup reaches your desired consistency.
6. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or celery leaves. Serve with lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of brightness.

Enjoy your Beefed-Up Bloody Mary Soup as a bold and comforting dish that’s perfect for those who love a little heat in their meals!