Beef barley soup is the ultimate comfort food—hearty, nutritious, and full of flavor. With tender chunks of beef, nutty barley, and a medley of vegetables simmered in a rich broth, this soup is perfect for chilly evenings or as a satisfying lunch. Let’s dive into the steps to create this soul-warming dish.
Ingredients
- 1 pound beef stew meat (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 6 cups beef broth (low sodium)
- 1 cup pearl barley
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes (with juices)
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional garnish: Fresh parsley, chopped
Steps to Make Beef Barley Soup
- Brown the Beef:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- Add the beef and season with salt and pepper. Cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the beef and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- In the same pot, add the onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5-6 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Add the Broth and Seasonings:
- Return the beef to the pot and pour in the beef broth.
- Add the diced tomatoes, pearl barley, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves. Stir to combine.
- Simmer the Soup:
- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 45-50 minutes, or until the barley is tender and the beef is cooked through.
- Adjust Seasoning and Serve:
- Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper, if needed.
- Remove the bay leaves before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Tips for Perfect Beef Barley Soup
- Choose the Right Beef: Stew meat or chuck roast works well as it becomes tender during slow cooking.
- For a Thicker Soup: Let it simmer uncovered for the last 10 minutes to reduce the broth slightly.
- Make It Ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.
- Customize the Veggies: Add mushrooms, parsnips, or potatoes for extra flavor and texture.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Hearty and Filling: Packed with protein and fiber, this soup is a complete meal in a bowl.
- Comforting and Nutritious: Warm flavors and wholesome ingredients make this a go-to recipe for chilly weather.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Ideal for meal prep, as it stores and reheats beautifully.
- Customizable: Swap in your favorite vegetables or grains for a personalized twist.
Beef barley soup is a classic recipe that brings together rich flavors, nourishing ingredients, and comforting warmth in every spoonful. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner or storing it for weekday lunches, this soup is guaranteed to please. Try it today and savor the ultimate comfort food!
Med
