Beef Barley Soup | Hearty & Comforting Soup Recipe

Introduction

Looking for a warm and satisfying meal that’s perfect for chilly days? This Beef Barley Soup is a robust and flavorful option that combines tender beef, wholesome barley, and a medley of vegetables. Ideal for a hearty lunch or a comforting dinner, this soup is both nourishing and delicious.

Ingredients

• 1 lb beef stew meat, cut into small pieces
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 carrots, sliced
• 3 celery stalks, sliced
• 1 cup pearl barley
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 8 cups beef broth
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. Heat the Olive Oil: In a large pot over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, add the beef stew meat and cook until browned on all sides.
2. Cook Vegetables: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the onion is softened.
3. Add Carrots and Celery: Stir in the sliced carrots and celery. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Add Remaining Ingredients: Stir in the pearl barley, diced tomatoes with their juice, beef broth, dried thyme, and bay leaf.
5. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Simmer for about 1 hour, or until the barley and beef are tender.
6. Season and Serve: Remove the bay leaf and season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Servings: 6

Variations

1. Vegetable Options: Add other vegetables like potatoes, parsnips, or green beans for extra flavor and nutrition.
2. Herb Substitutes: Swap dried thyme for other herbs like rosemary or oregano for a different flavor profile.
3. Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for a bit of heat.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze the soup for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Reheat on the stove over medium heat until heated through. If frozen, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of meat? Yes, you can substitute beef stew meat with other cuts like chuck roast or even ground beef, though cooking times may vary.
2. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker? Yes, brown the beef and cook the vegetables first, then transfer them to a slow cooker with the rest of the ingredients. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. Can I use quick-cooking barley instead of pearl barley? Yes, quick-cooking barley will reduce the cooking time. Add it during the last 20 minutes of cooking.
4. How can I thicken the soup if it’s too thin? You can thicken the soup by mashing some of the barley and vegetables with a spoon or adding a slurry of cornstarch and water.
5. Is this soup gluten-free? Traditional pearl barley contains gluten. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free grains or beans.
6. Can I add beans to this soup? Yes, beans like kidney beans or black beans can be added for extra protein and fiber. Add them during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
7. What’s a good side to serve with this soup? Crusty bread, a simple green salad, or a fresh sandwich would complement this soup well.
8. Can I make this soup ahead of time? Yes, this soup can be made ahead of time and often tastes even better the next day after the flavors have melded.
9. Can I use homemade beef broth? Yes, homemade beef broth will add extra depth of flavor to the soup. Just make sure to adjust the seasoning accordingly.
10. How do I know when the barley is cooked? The barley should be tender but still have a slight chew. It should not be mushy.

Conclusion

This Beef Barley Soup is a perfect example of a hearty, comforting meal that’s ideal for cold weather or anytime you need a nourishing dish. With its savory beef, tender barley, and flavorful vegetables, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, this soup brings warmth and satisfaction to any table.

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