Hearty Beef & Barley Soup Recipe Nothing warms you up like a bowl of Beef & Barley Soup! Packed with tender chunks of beef, nutritious barley, and hearty vegetables, this …
Hearty Beef & Barley Soup Recipe
Nothing warms you up like a bowl of Beef & Barley Soup! Packed with tender chunks of beef, nutritious barley, and hearty vegetables, this soup is a comforting classic that’s ideal for chilly days. It’s full of flavor, filling, and easy to make in one pot.
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
- Heat Oil: In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Brown the Beef: Season the beef chunks with salt and pepper, then add them to the pot. Sear the meat for about 3-5 minutes, or until browned on all sides. Remove the beef from the pot and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté Vegetables
- Cook Onion and Garlic: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot, cooking for 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Add Carrots and Celery: Stir in the carrots and celery, cooking for another 5 minutes to release their flavors. Add mushrooms if using.
Step 3: Add Broth, Beef, and Seasonings
- Combine Ingredients: Return the browned beef to the pot, then pour in the beef broth and diced tomatoes.
- Season: Add the bay leaves, thyme, rosemary, and additional salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything together.
Step 4: Add the Barley and Simmer
- Add Barley: Stir in the pearl barley.
- Simmer: Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 45-60 minutes, or until the beef and barley are tender and the soup has thickened slightly.
Step 5: Taste and Serve
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the soup and adjust seasonings as needed.
- Garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and enjoy it warm!
Tips for Making the Best Beef & Barley Soup
- Choose the Right Beef: Beef stew meat, chuck roast, or even short ribs work well for tender, flavorful results.
- Use Quality Broth: A rich, flavorful beef broth or stock makes a huge difference.
- Cook Low and Slow: Letting the soup simmer for at least 45 minutes allows the beef to become tender and flavors to meld.
Variations on Beef & Barley Soup
- Add More Veggies: Throw in 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
This Beef & Barley Soup is delicious with:
- 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 a little Parmesan on top for extra flavor.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: Freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: Reheat in a pot over medium heat until warmed through. You may need to add a bit of broth if the soup has thickened too much.
FAQs
Can I Use Quick-Cooking Barley?
Yes, but add it toward the end of cooking since quick-cooking barley only needs about 15-20 minutes.
What Can I Substitute for Barley?
For a gluten-free option, replace barley with rice or quinoa, though they may alter the soup’s texture slightly.
Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! In fact, the flavors improve after a day in the fridge, making this a great make-ahead dish.
This Hearty Beef & Barley Soup is comfort in a bowl, packed with protein, fiber, and loads of flavor. Perfect for cozy evenings or meal prepping for the week, it’s a satisfying dish that everyone will love. Enjoy!