Hearty Beef and Barley Soup Recipe

Looking for a cozy, satisfying meal on a chilly day? This Beef and Barley Soup is packed with tender beef, wholesome barley, and nourishing vegetables. It’s a classic comfort dish that’s easy to prepare, filling, and perfect for family meals or meal prep. With a rich broth and savory flavors, this soup is a winter must-have that warms you from the inside out.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hearty and Filling: With protein-packed beef, fiber-rich barley, and vegetables, this soup is both nutritious and satisfying.
• One-Pot Simplicity: Everything cooks in one pot, making cleanup easy and flavor concentration even better.
• Customizable: Add your favorite vegetables or swap ingredients to suit your taste.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Tastes even better the next day as flavors meld together, making it ideal for meal prep.

Ingredients

• 1 lb beef stew meat, cubed
• 1 cup barley
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 carrots, chopped
• 3 celery stalks, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 cups beef broth
• 1 teaspoon thyme
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Brown the Beef: In a large pot over medium-high heat, add a splash of oil and brown the cubed beef stew meat. Let it sear to develop deep flavor, about 5-6 minutes.
2. Cook the Vegetables: Add the chopped onion, carrots, celery, and minced garlic to the pot with the beef. Sauté for about 5 minutes, until the vegetables are slightly softened and fragrant.
3. Combine Ingredients: Stir in the barley, beef broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Scrape the bottom of the pot to release any browned bits, which add flavor to the soup.
4. Simmer: Bring the soup to a gentle simmer. Cover the pot and cook for about 1 hour, or until the beef is tender and the barley is fully cooked.
5. Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the hot soup into bowls and enjoy! Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon for stirring
• Ladle for serving
• Cutting board and knife for chopping

Serving and Storage Tips

• Serving: Serve this soup with crusty bread, rolls, or a side salad for a balanced, comforting meal.
• Storage: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors deepen over time, making it even tastier the next day.
• Freezing: This soup freezes well for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop.

Recipe Variations

• Add More Veggies: Try adding mushrooms, potatoes, or parsnips for added texture and flavor.
• Swap the Grain: Substitute barley with farro, brown rice, or quinoa for a twist.
• Herb Variations: Use rosemary or bay leaves along with thyme for a more complex flavor profile.
• Make It a Tomato-Based Soup: Add a can of diced tomatoes for a richer broth with a hint of acidity.

Helpful Notes

• Choosing the Beef: Look for stew meat or chuck roast, as they become tender with slow cooking. Trim any excess fat for a leaner soup.
• Cooking the Barley: Pearled barley is recommended because it cooks faster than hulled barley. If using hulled barley, increase the cooking time by about 15-20 minutes.
• Thicker Consistency: For a thicker soup, add an extra half cup of barley or reduce the broth by 1 cup.

Tips from Chefs

• Chef Ina Garten: “Add a Parmesan rind while the soup simmers—it infuses the broth with savory flavor.”

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes! Brown the beef and sauté the vegetables on the stovetop first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the beef and barley are tender.

Q2: Can I use ground beef instead of stew meat?
Yes, ground beef can be used for a quicker option. Brown it first and continue with the recipe as directed.

Q3: What type of barley should I use?
Pearled barley is commonly used because it cooks faster. Hulled barley, which is more whole grain, takes a bit longer but adds a nice, chewy texture.

Q4: Can I add more broth to make it soupier?
Absolutely! Add an extra cup or two of broth if you prefer a thinner consistency.

Q5: Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, swap the barley for a gluten-free grain, like quinoa or rice, and check that the beef broth is gluten-free.

Savor the Cozy Comfort of Beef and Barley Soup

This Beef and Barley Soup is packed with wholesome ingredients, tender beef, and satisfying flavors that make it a perfect winter warmer. Whether you’re enjoying it as a hearty lunch or cozy dinner, this soup brings comfort to every bowl. Serve it with warm bread or crackers, and enjoy a timeless classic that’s as nourishing as it is delicious.

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