This Beef Barley Soup is rich, comforting, and perfect for chilly fall days. With tender beef, nourishing vegetables, and filling barley, it’s a nutritious soup that’s easy to make and loaded with flavor. Serve it with crusty bread, and you’ll have a satisfying meal for the whole family!
Ingredients
- 1 lb beef stew meat, cubed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 cup pearl barley
- 6 cups beef broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juice
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
These simple ingredients combine to make a hearty and flavorful soup that’s perfect for any cold day!
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Brown the Beef:
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the beef stew meat and cook for 4-5 minutes until browned on all sides. Remove the beef from the pot and set aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
- In the same pot, add the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery.
- Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened and the onions are translucent.
3. Add the Broth and Ingredients:
- Return the browned beef to the pot and add beef broth, diced tomatoes (with their juice), pearl barley, bay leaves, and thyme.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, then bring the soup to a boil.
4. Simmer the Soup:
- Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let the soup simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours. This allows the beef to become tender and the barley to cook through.
5. Finish and Serve:
- Remove the bay leaves from the soup and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot, with crusty bread if desired.
Helpful Tips for Perfect Beef Barley Soup
- Use Quality Beef Broth: High-quality beef broth enhances the soup’s flavor. You can also use bone broth for added richness.
- Simmer for Tenderness: Allowing the soup to simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours ensures that the beef is tender and the flavors fully develop.
- Add Extra Veggies: Mushrooms, potatoes, or even spinach can add extra flavor and nutrition to the soup.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Beef Barley Soup is packed with wholesome ingredients that make it both filling and nutritious. The tender beef, hearty barley, and savory vegetables create a rich, warming meal that’s perfect for fall. With simple steps and minimal prep time, it’s easy to prepare and ideal for cozy family dinners.
Nutritional Information
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
- Servings: 6
Note: Nutritional values may vary based on portion sizes and specific ingredients used.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use a different grain instead of barley?
- Yes, you can substitute barley with farro, rice, or quinoa. Adjust the cooking time as needed for different grains.
2. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
- Absolutely! Brown the beef and sauté the vegetables, then add everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours.
3. How do I store leftovers?
- Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
4. Can I freeze this soup?
- Yes, this soup freezes well. Allow it to cool, then freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
5. What can I serve with this soup?
- Serve with crusty bread, a fresh green salad, or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Conclusion
This Beef Barley Soup is a delicious, comforting dish that’s perfect for cooler weather. With tender beef, wholesome barley, and savory vegetables, it’s a nutritious meal that’s easy to make and incredibly satisfying. Enjoy a bowl of warmth and flavor with every spoonful!