Hearty Beef & Barley Soup

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This Beef & Barley Soup is the ultimate comfort food for cold weather! With tender chunks of beef, hearty vegetables, and chewy pearl barley, it’s a filling and flavorful soup that’s easy to make in one pot. Perfect for chilly evenings or meal prepping for the week, this soup is sure to warm you up from the inside out.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb beef stew meat (cut into small chunks)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium onion (diced)
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 3 large carrots (sliced)
  • 3 celery stalks (sliced)
  • 8 cups beef broth (or beef stock for a richer flavor)
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (undrained)
  • ¾ cup pearl barley
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • Salt and black pepper (to taste)
  • 1 cup mushrooms (sliced, optional)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

Instructions:

Step 1: Sear the Beef

  1. Heat olive oil in a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
  2. Season the beef stew meat with salt and pepper, then add it to the pot. Sear the meat for about 3-5 minutes, turning to brown all sides.
  3. Once browned, remove the beef from the pot and set it aside.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

  1. In the same pot, add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking for 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
  2. Add the carrots and celery and cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. If using, add the mushrooms and cook for another 2 minutes.

Step 3: Add Broth, Beef, and Seasonings

  1. Return the browned beef to the pot, then pour in the beef broth and diced tomatoes.
  2. Stir in the bay leaves, dried thyme, dried rosemary, and add salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything together to combine.

Step 4: Add Barley and Simmer

  1. Stir in the pearl barley and bring the soup to a boil.
  2. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the soup simmer for 45-60 minutes, or until the beef is tender, the barley is cooked through, and the soup has thickened slightly.

Step 5: Taste and Serve

  1. Taste the soup and adjust seasoning if necessary.
  2. Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm.

Tips for Making the Best Beef & Barley Soup

  • Choose the Right Beef: Beef stew meat or chuck roast works well for this soup, as these cuts become tender after simmering.
  • Use Quality Broth: A rich, flavorful beef broth or stock makes a huge difference in the taste of the soup.
  • Cook Low and Slow: Letting the soup simmer for at least 45 minutes allows the beef to become tender and all the flavors to meld together.

Variations on Beef & Barley Soup

  • Add More Veggies: You can add diced potatoes, green beans, or peas for extra nutrition.
  • Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for some heat.
  • Slow Cooker Version: For an easy option, add all ingredients to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4 hours.

Serving Suggestions

  • Crusty Bread: Serve with a slice of warm, crusty bread for dipping.
  • Side Salad: A fresh green salad complements the richness of the soup.
  • Grated Parmesan: Sprinkle some Parmesan on top for added flavor.

Storage and Reheating Tips

  • Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
  • Freezing: This soup freezes well! Freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
  • Reheating: Reheat in a pot over medium heat. If the soup has thickened too much during storage, add a bit more broth or water to reach your desired consistency.

FAQs

  • Can I use quick-cooking barley?
    Yes, if you’re using quick-cooking barley, add it toward the end of cooking since it only needs about 15-20 minutes to cook through.
  • What can I substitute for barley?
    For a gluten-free option, replace barley with rice or quinoa, though they may change the texture slightly.
  • Can I make this soup ahead of time?
    Absolutely! In fact, the soup tastes even better after a day in the fridge, as the flavors have more time to develop.

This Hearty Beef & Barley Soup is a satisfying, nutrient-packed meal that will keep you full and cozy. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or prepping meals for the week, it’s the perfect dish to enjoy on those chilly days!

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