Beef & Barley Soup

Beef & Barley Soup is a comforting and hearty dish that warms you from the inside out. It’s perfect for chilly days or when you need a little pick-me-up. Packed with tender beef, nutritious veggies, and wholesome barley, this soup is great for family gatherings or a cozy night in.

Why Make This Recipe

Making Beef & Barley Soup is not just easy; it’s also very satisfying! This recipe is a wonderful way to use basic ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. Plus, it’s a one-pot meal, which means less cleanup for you. My family loves it, and I bet yours will too!

How to Make Beef & Barley Soup

Let’s get started with this delicious recipe that’s simple enough for anyone to make.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb beef stew meat, cut into small pieces
• 1 cup barley
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 cups beef broth
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil

Directions:

1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, celery, and minced garlic. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are soft.

2. Add the beef stew meat to the pot and cook until browned on all sides.

3. Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a boil.

4. Stir in the barley and diced tomatoes (if using). Lower the heat to a simmer.

5. Cover and cook for about 1 hour, or until the beef is tender and the barley is cooked through.

6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

How to Serve Beef & Barley Soup

Serve this hearty soup in large bowls. It pairs wonderfully with some crusty bread or a simple side salad. You can also sprinkle some fresh herbs on top for extra flavor and color.

How to Store Beef & Barley Soup

If you have leftovers, let the soup cool down and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It will last for about 3 to 4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Just thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.

Tips to Make Beef & Barley Soup

• For more flavor, you can add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce while cooking.
• Feel free to toss in other vegetables like peas or corn for added nutrients.
• If you want a thicker soup, allow it to simmer a little longer to let it reduce.

Variation

You can make a chicken version of this soup by using chicken pieces and chicken broth instead of beef. Just replace the beef with 1 lb of chicken and follow the same cooking steps.

FAQs

1. Can I use other grains instead of barley? Yes, you can use quinoa or rice if you prefer. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed.

2. What can I do if my soup is too salty? You can add more water or broth to dilute the saltiness. Adding diced potatoes can also help absorb some of the salt.

3. Can I make Beef & Barley Soup in a slow cooker? Absolutely! Just brown the beef and sauté the vegetables, then transfer everything to a slow cooker with the broth and barley. Cook on low for 6-8 hours.