Beef and Barley Soup

Beef and Barley Soup

by

introduction

Beef and Barley Soup is a hearty and comforting dish that warms you from the inside out. It’s packed with tender meat, fresh veggies, and wholesome barley, making it perfect for chilly days or a cozy family dinner.

why make this recipe

This soup is not just delicious; it’s also super easy to make! You can prepare it in under two hours, and it fills the house with amazing smells. It’s great for busy weeknights or any day you want a warm bowl of goodness. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to bring the family together around the dinner table.

how to make Beef and Barley Soup

Making Beef and Barley Soup is simple! Just follow these easy steps, and you’ll have a comforting meal ready to enjoy.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb beef stew meat, cut into small cubes
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 carrots, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 6 cups beef broth
  • 1 cup pearl barley
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Directions:

  1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent.
  2. Add the beef stew meat to the pot, seasoning with salt and pepper. Brown the meat on all sides.
  3. Stir in the diced carrots and celery, cooking for another 5 minutes.
  4. Pour in the beef broth and bring to a boil.
  5. Once boiling, add the pearl barley, dried thyme, and any additional salt and pepper to taste.
  6. Reduce heat to a simmer, cover the pot, and let it cook for about 1 to 1.5 hours or until the beef and barley are tender.
  7. Adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

how to serve Beef and Barley Soup

Serve this tasty soup hot in bowls. You can add a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top for a nice touch. It goes well with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.

how to store Beef and Barley Soup

If you have leftovers, let the soup cool completely. Transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the fridge before reheating.

tips to make Beef and Barley Soup

  • For extra flavor, sear the beef pieces for a few extra minutes before adding the vegetables.
  • Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, like mushrooms or peas, for more color and nutrients.
  • Don’t skip on fresh herbs; they can really brighten up the soup!

variation

You can make a lighter version by using chicken instead of beef. Substitute chicken broth and pearl couscous for a different taste!

FAQs

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker? Yes! Brown the beef first, then add it to your slow cooker with all the ingredients. Cook on low for 6-8 hours.

Can I use quick-cooking barley? You can, but the texture will be different. Quick-cooking barley cooks faster and may not hold up as well in the soup.

Is this soup gluten-free? No, traditional barley contains gluten. However, you can substitute with quinoa or rice for a gluten-free option.