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:
-
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.
-
Add the beef stew meat to the pot and cook until browned on all sides.
-
Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
-
Stir in the barley and diced tomatoes (if using). Lower the heat to a simmer.
-
Cover and cook for about 1 hour, or until the beef is tender and the barley is cooked through.
-
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
-
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
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.