Hearty Beef Barley Soup with Tender Beef and Vegetables

Hearty Beef Barley Soup with Tender Beef and Vegetables

Introduction

When it comes to hearty and wholesome soups, Beef Barley Soup is a classic favorite. With tender beef, chewy barley, and a medley of fresh vegetables, this rich and flavorful soup is perfect for filling up on a cold day. It’s the kind of meal that’s not only comforting but also packed with nutrients, making it a perfect option for a cozy dinner. Let’s get started with this easy-to-follow recipe!


Ingredients

For the Soup:

  • 1 lb beef stew meat (chuck roast, cut into cubes)
  • 1 cup pearl barley, rinsed
  • 2 large carrots, peeled and diced
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 6 cups beef broth (low-sodium)
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1 tsp dried rosemary
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tbsp olive oil (for browning the beef)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)


Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Beef

  1. Sear the Beef: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes and brown them on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Once browned, remove the beef from the pot and set it aside.
  2. Deglaze the Pot: If necessary, add a splash of beef broth to deglaze the pot, scraping up any browned bits stuck to the bottom. These add great flavor to your soup.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

  1. Cook the Vegetables: In the same pot, add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for about 5 minutes until the vegetables soften and the onions become translucent.
  2. Add Garlic and Herbs: Stir in the minced garlic, dried thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Simmer the Soup

  1. Add the Beef and Broth: Return the browned beef to the pot along with the beef broth and diced tomatoes. Stir to combine and bring to a boil.
  2. Simmer: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for 1 hour, stirring occasionally, until the beef becomes tender.
  3. Add the Barley: After the beef is tender, add the rinsed barley to the soup. Continue simmering for 30-40 minutes, until the barley is cooked and tender.

Step 4: Final Adjustments and Serve

  1. Adjust the Seasoning: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, or additional thyme if needed.
  2. Garnish and Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of freshness.
  3. Serve: Enjoy this hearty and flavorful soup with a side of crusty bread or crackers for the ultimate comfort meal.

Tips for Success

  • Tender Beef: For best results, use a cut of beef that becomes tender after slow cooking, like chuck roast. If you’re using stew meat, cook it long enough for it to become fall-apart tender.
  • Barley Variations: If you prefer a softer texture, cook the barley a bit longer, or if you prefer it with more bite, reduce the cooking time.
  • Vegetable Additions: Feel free to add other vegetables, like peas, spinach, or parsnips, to make the soup even more hearty.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Comforting and Nutritious: The rich broth, tender beef, and hearty barley make this soup satisfying and packed with nutrients.
  • Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients and one pot, this recipe comes together with minimal effort.
  • Filling and Hearty: This soup is filling enough to be a complete meal on its own. It’s perfect for a family dinner or to have leftovers for lunch the next day.

Conclusion

Beef Barley Soup is a timeless classic that never fails to deliver. Packed with tender beef, wholesome vegetables, and chewy barley, it’s the ultimate comforting dish for any time of the year. Whether you’re craving something warm and hearty or looking for a nutritious meal, this soup has it all. Try it out today and enjoy a bowl full of comfort and goodness!

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