How to make Hearty Beef and Barley Soup Recipe 🥣

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This Hearty Beef and Barley Soup is the ultimate comfort food, packed with tender beef, nutty barley, and a medley of flavorful vegetables. It’s a nourishing, satisfying dish perfect for chilly days or when you crave something warm and wholesome. This recipe is simple to make and freezes beautifully for meal prep.

Ingredients

For the Beef:

  • 1 lb (450g) beef stew meat, cut into small chunks
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Soup Base:

  • 1 medium onion, finely diced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 carrots, sliced
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (optional)

For the Soup:

  • 6 cups beef broth (low-sodium if preferred)
  • 1 cup pearl barley
  • 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes (with juices)
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • 1 bay leaf
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Optional Garnish:

  • Fresh parsley, chopped
  • A drizzle of olive oil or balsamic glaze
  • Crusty bread for serving

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Beef

  1. In a bowl, toss the beef chunks with flour, salt, and pepper to coat evenly.
  2. Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
  3. Brown the beef in batches to avoid overcrowding, about 3–4 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

  1. In the same pot, add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until softened and fragrant.
  2. If using mushrooms, add them now and cook for an additional 3 minutes.

Step 3: Build the Soup Base

  1. Return the browned beef to the pot.
  2. Stir in the beef broth, diced tomatoes, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil.

Step 4: Add Barley and Simmer

  1. Reduce the heat to low and add the barley. Cover and simmer for 45–50 minutes, or until the barley and beef are tender.
  2. Stir occasionally to prevent the barley from sticking to the bottom.

Step 5: Adjust Seasoning

  1. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

  1. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or your favorite toppings.
  2. Serve with crusty bread for a complete meal.

Tips for Perfect Beef and Barley Soup

  • Choose the Right Beef: Stew meat, chuck roast, or short ribs work best for their rich flavor and tender texture after slow cooking.
  • Pearl vs. Hulled Barley: Pearl barley cooks faster and has a softer texture, while hulled barley is chewier and takes longer to cook. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
  • Make It Ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
  • Vegetarian Option: Replace the beef and beef broth with lentils and vegetable broth for a hearty, meat-free alternative.

Why You’ll Love This Soup

This Hearty Beef and Barley Soup is:

  • Nutritious: Packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins.
  • Flavorful: Herbs, tender beef, and earthy barley create a rich and satisfying taste.
  • Comforting: Perfect for cold weather or when you need a bowl of warmth.
  • Easy to Customize: Add or swap vegetables based on what you have on hand.

 

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