I was looking for the same information / total paid to vendors in any given timeframe to include vendors recorded in journal entry transactions.  I was able to get this by customizing a report as follows (Quickbooks Desktop):

- Select "Reports"

- Click "Vendors & Payables"

- Click "Vendor Balance Detail"

- Click "Customize Report"

- Scroll down under "Columns" and put a checkmark next to "Name"

- Click the "Filters" tab and select "Account", then under dropdown select "Current assets and expenses"

You may adjust the report for specific timeframe but report also gives you total paid to date.  Hope this helps.