Hearty Beef & Barley Soup

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This comforting Beef & Barley Soup is a cozy meal in a bowl, perfect for chilly days. The tender chunks of beef, nutritious barley, and flavorful vegetables come together to create a rich and filling soup that’s sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients for Beef & Barley Soup

  • 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
  • 3/4 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)

Step-by-Step Instructions for Beef & Barley Soup

Step 1: Sear the Beef

  1. Heat Oil: In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat.
  2. Brown the Beef: Season the beef stew meat with salt and pepper. Add it to the pot and sear for about 3-5 minutes, browning on all sides. Remove the beef from the pot and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

  1. Cook Onion and Garlic: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
  2. Add Carrots and Celery: Stir in the sliced carrots and celery. Cook for another 5 minutes to release their flavors. Add mushrooms if using.

Step 3: Add Broth, Beef, and Seasonings

  1. Combine Ingredients: Return the browned beef to the pot.
  2. Add Liquids: Pour in 8 cups of beef broth and the can of diced tomatoes with juice.
  3. Season: Add 2 bay leaves, 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary, and additional salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything together.

Step 4: Add the Barley and Simmer

  1. Add Barley: Stir in 3/4 cup of pearl barley.
  2. Simmer: Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let the soup simmer for 45-60 minutes, or until the beef and barley are tender and the soup has thickened slightly.

Step 5: Taste and Serve

  1. Adjust Seasoning: Taste the soup and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
  2. Garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve with crusty bread or a side of buttered rolls for dipping.
  • A side salad adds a refreshing balance to this hearty soup.

Helpful Tips

  • Use Quality Beef Broth: A good beef broth or stock deepens the soup’s flavor.
  • Brown the Meat Well: Searing the beef until it’s nicely browned adds a richer, more developed flavor.
  • Add Greens: For added nutrients, stir in a handful of spinach or kale during the last few minutes of simmering.

Recipe Timing and Yield

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour
  • Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings

This Beef & Barley Soup is a classic comfort food with wholesome ingredients and a heartwarming flavor. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep, this recipe is sure to satisfy. Enjoy!

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