Hearty Beef and Barley Soup is a satisfying and nutritious meal perfect for colder months or whenever you’re craving a comforting, wholesome dish. This classic soup combines tender chunks of beef, nutty barley, and an assortment of vegetables in a rich, savory broth.
Hearty Beef and Barley Soup is packed with flavor and nutrition, offering a balanced meal with protein, fiber, and vegetables. It’s a versatile dish that can be made ahead of time and enjoyed for several days as the flavors deepen. This recipe is perfect for cozy dinners, meal prep, or when you’re in need of a comforting, nourishing bowl of goodness.
Enjoy this comforting classic with family and friends, and savor the warmth and richness in every spoonful! Follow this easy recipe to create a soup that will warm your soul and fill you up!
INGREDIENTS:
- 1 lb beef stew meat, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 8 cups beef broth
- 1 cup pearl barley, rinsed
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
INSTRUCTIONS:
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Sear the Beef
- Heat the Oil: In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Brown the Beef: Add the beef stew meat to the pot in a single layer, working in batches if necessary. Sear the meat on all sides until browned, about 5–7 minutes. This step adds flavor to the soup.
- Remove and Set Aside: Once browned, remove the beef from the pot and set it aside on a plate.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
- Cook the Onions and Garlic: In the same pot, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 2 minutes, stirring frequently, until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
- Add the Carrots and Celery: Add the sliced carrots and celery to the pot, stirring occasionally. Cook for another 3–4 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
Step 3: Build the Soup Base
- Return the Beef: Return the browned beef to the pot along with any accumulated juices.
- Add the Broth: Pour in the beef broth, scraping the bottom of the pot to release any browned bits, which add flavor to the soup.
- Add Seasonings: Add the bay leaf, dried thyme, and dried rosemary. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Add the Barley and Simmer
- Add the Barley: Stir in the rinsed pearl barley.
- Simmer the Soup: Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the beef is tender, the barley is cooked, and the flavors meld together.
- Check for Seasoning: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper, if needed.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Garnish and Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with freshly chopped parsley, and serve hot.
- Pair with Bread: This hearty soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a side of buttered rolls for a complete meal.
Tips for Perfect Beef and Barley Soup
- Choose the Right Beef: Beef stew meat or chuck roast works well in this recipe, as these cuts become tender with slow cooking.
- Rinse the Barley: Rinsing the barley removes excess starch and ensures a clean, nutty flavor.
- Use Fresh Herbs for Extra Flavor: If you have fresh thyme or rosemary, feel free to use those instead of dried herbs for a more vibrant taste.
- Adjust the Thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can simmer it uncovered for the last 15 minutes to reduce the liquid. If you want it thinner, simply add more broth.
