“Warm Up with This Hearty, Comforting Bowl of Goodness!”
This Beef Barley Soup is the ultimate cold-weather comfort food, featuring tender beef, chewy barley, and a medley of vegetables simmered in a rich, flavorful broth. Perfect for cozy evenings or when you need a wholesome, satisfying meal.
Ingredients
For the Soup:
- 1 lb beef stew meat or chuck roast, cut into bite-sized pieces – Tender and flavorful.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – For searing the beef.
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped – Adds sweetness and depth.
- 2 garlic cloves, minced – Enhances the savory base.
- 2 medium carrots, diced – Sweet and colorful addition.
- 2 celery stalks, diced – Adds crunch and freshness.
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (optional) – Adds an earthy flavor.
- 3/4 cup pearl barley – Nutty and chewy for a hearty texture.
- 6 cups beef broth – The foundation of the soup.
For Seasoning:
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme – Adds a warm, herby note.
- 1 bay leaf – For aromatic depth.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce – For extra umami.
Optional Garnishes:
Chopped fresh parsley – For brightness.
Crusty bread – Perfect for dipping.
How to Make Beef Barley Soup
Step 1: Sear the Beef
- Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- Season the beef with salt and pepper, then sear in batches until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
- In the same pot, add the onion, carrots, celery, and mushrooms (if using). Cook for 5–7 minutes, until softened.
- Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Build the Soup Base
- Return the seared beef to the pot.
- Add the beef broth, thyme, bay leaf, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir to combine.
Step 4: Add the Barley and Simmer
- Stir in the barley. Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low.
- Cover and simmer for 45–60 minutes, or until the beef is tender and the barley is cooked through.
Step 5: Adjust and Serve
- Remove the bay leaf and taste the soup. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Rich and Hearty: The beef and barley make it a filling and satisfying meal.
Flavorful Broth: Slow simmering develops a deeply savory taste.
Nutritious: Packed with protein, fiber, and vegetables.
Customizable: Add your favorite veggies or use a different grain like farro or quinoa.
Pro Tips for Success
Use Good Quality Beef Broth: A rich broth enhances the overall flavor.
Don’t Rush the Simmer: Slow cooking ensures tender beef and flavorful soup.
Make Ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld.
This Beef Barley Soup is a bold, hearty way to beat the cold and satisfy your cravings for something warm and nourishing. Pair it with crusty bread or a simple salad for the perfect winter meal. Enjoy! 🍲🔥🥩✨