If you’re craving something warm and hearty, beef barley soup is your go-to! You’ll start by cutting a pound of beef into bite-sized pieces. Season it with salt and pepper, then brown it in a pot for around 7 minutes. Next, sauté chopped onions, carrots, and celery until they’re soft. Add in 4 cups of beef broth and 1 cup of pearl barley, then simmer everything on low for about an hour. This soup is so comforting, especially on a chilly day! Plus, you can always tweak it to fit what you’ve got at home and make it your own! Want more tips?
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
You’ll love how this beef barley soup combines hearty flavors with simple ingredients to create a comforting meal. It’s perfect for chilly days or when you just need a little pick-me-up.
What makes this soup stand out is its amazing flavor profile and health benefits. Here are four reasons why you’ll enjoy it:
- Nutritious Ingredients: Barley is packed with fiber, which helps your tummy feel full and keeps your heart healthy.
- Flavor Explosion: With savory beef, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs, every spoonful bursts with taste, making your mouth water.
- Easy to Make: You don’t need to be a master chef. Just chop, simmer, and let the magic happen—it’s that simple!
- Versatile Option: You can customize it! Add your favorite veggies or spices to make it uniquely yours.
This soup not only warms you up but also provides essential nutrients, making it a smart choice for any meal.
Beef Barley Soup Recipe
Course: SoupsCuisine: American6-8
servings15
minutes2
hours250
kcalWarm up with a delicious beef barley soup recipe that’ll leave you craving more—discover the secret to its heartiness inside!
Ingredients
– 1 lb beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1 cup pearl barley
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 carrots, diced
– 3 celery stalks, diced
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 8 cups beef broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (undrained)
– 2 bay leaves
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley for garnish
Directions
- In a large pot, brown the beef stew meat over medium-high heat until browned on all sides.
- Add the onions, carrots, celery, and garlic; sauté until softened (about 5 minutes).
- Stir in the beef broth, tomatoes, pearl barley, bay leaves, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover.
- Simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender and barley is cooked.
- Discard the bay leaves, taste for seasoning, and adjust as necessary.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Notes
- You can add your favorite vegetables or adjust the seasonings to your liking.
- This soup freezes well, so save some for later!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use a Slow Cooker for This Beef Barley Soup?
Yes, you can definitely use a slow cooker for this! The slow cooker benefits include tender meat and rich flavors, plus it allows for longer cooking time without constant attention, making meal prep easier for you.
What Type of Barley Is Best for This Recipe?
When choosing barley varieties, opt for pearl barley for its quick cooking time and chewy texture. If you prefer a nuttier flavor, try hulled barley, but remember it takes longer with different cooking techniques.
How Long Does Beef Barley Soup Last in the Freezer?
Beef barley soup lasts up to three months in the freezer. For ideal soup preservation, store it in airtight containers. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw and reheat for a delicious meal.
Can I Substitute Beef With Another Protein?
Did you know that 80% of people seek protein alternatives for health reasons? You can definitely substitute beef with chicken, turkey, or even lentils, each offering unique flavor profiles that enhance your dish’s taste and nutrition.
Is This Soup Gluten-Free Without Barley?
If you skip barley, the soup can be gluten-free. You’ll want to explore gluten-free alternatives like quinoa or rice as barley substitutes. Just make sure all other ingredients are also gluten-free for safety.
