If you’re craving a warm, nourishing, and hearty meal, this Beef and Barley Soup is the perfect choice. Packed with tender beef, wholesome barley, and fresh vegetables, this soup is ideal for cozy family dinners or meal prepping during colder months. The combination of savory flavors and hearty ingredients makes it a timeless comfort food.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Wholesome and Nutritious: Full of protein, fiber, and vegetables.
- One-Pot Wonder: Easy to make with minimal cleanup.
- Perfect for Leftovers: Tastes even better the next day!
Ingredients for Beef and Barley Soup
For the Soup Base:
- 1 lb (450g) beef stew meat, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 cup pearl barley
- 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 8 cups beef broth (or stock)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish (Optional):
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Crusty bread for serving
INSTRUCTIONS:
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Beef
- Pat the stew meat dry with a paper towel to help it brown better.
- Season with salt and pepper.
2. Sear the Beef
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- Add the beef and sear on all sides until browned (about 5 minutes). Remove the beef and set aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables
- In the same pot, add the onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 additional minute until fragrant.
4. Add the Base Ingredients
- Return the beef to the pot.
- Add the diced tomatoes, pearl barley, thyme, bay leaf, and beef broth. Stir well to combine.
5. Simmer the Soup
- Bring the soup to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot.
- Simmer for 1.5–2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the beef is tender and the barley is cooked.
6. Adjust Seasoning
- Taste the soup and adjust with salt and pepper as needed. Remove the bay leaf before serving.
7. Serve and Enjoy
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve with crusty bread for a complete, satisfying meal.
Tips for Perfect Beef and Barley Soup
- Choose the Right Beef: Use stew meat or chuck roast for tender, flavorful results.
- Soak the Barley: Rinse the barley before adding it to the soup to remove excess starch.
- Add Depth: A splash of red wine or Worcestershire sauce can enhance the soup’s flavor.
- Meal Prep Friendly: This soup freezes beautifully. Let it cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months.
- Vegetable Variations: Add mushrooms, parsnips, or zucchini for additional textures and flavors.
