Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Hearty Beef & Barley Soup is a comforting and nourishing classic that’s perfect for cold days or whenever you need a filling meal in a bowl. Tender chunks of beef, wholesome barley, and a medley of vegetables simmer together in a savory broth to create a rich, flavorful soup that satisfies both hunger and taste.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

beef stew meat (cut into bite-sized pieces)olive oilonionscarrotscelerygarlicbeef brothtomato pastebay leavesdried thymepearl barleyparsley (for garnish)salt and pepper

directions

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.

Add the beef and brown on all sides. Remove and set aside.

In the same pot, sauté onions, carrots, and celery until softened.

Add garlic and cook for another minute.

Stir in tomato paste, then return the beef to the pot.

Pour in beef broth and add bay leaves, thyme, salt, and pepper.

Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 45 minutes.

Stir in pearl barley and continue to simmer for an additional 30-40 minutes, or until the beef is tender and barley is cooked.

Remove bay leaves and adjust seasoning as needed.

Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 6 servings.Preparation time: 15 minutesCooking time: 1 hour 15 minutesTotal time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Variations

Use ground beef instead of stew meat for a quicker version.

Add mushrooms or green beans for extra vegetables.

Use chicken broth and turkey instead of beef for a lighter twist.

Include potatoes for added heartiness.

Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce for deeper flavor.

storage/reheating

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.It can also be frozen for up to 3 months.Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if it thickens too much.

FAQs

Can I use quick-cooking barley?

Yes, but add it later in the cooking process and reduce the simmering time accordingly.

Is this soup gluten-free?

Barley contains gluten, so it’s not suitable for gluten-free diets. Substitute with rice or quinoa for a gluten-free version.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes. Brown the beef first, then add all ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

What cut of beef works best?

Chuck roast or stew meat are ideal for their tenderness after slow cooking.

Can I use vegetable broth instead of beef broth?

Yes, but it will slightly alter the flavor profile.

Conclusion

Hearty Beef & Barley Soup is a soul-warming dish packed with tender beef, chewy barley, and flavorful vegetables. It’s the perfect meal to prepare ahead, enjoy over several days, or freeze for later. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal prepping for the week, this soup is a nourishing and delicious choice.