Beef Barley Soup

Beef Barley Soup is a hearty and comforting dish that warms you up from the inside out. Packed with tender beef, nutritious vegetables, and chewy barley, this soup is perfect for chilly days and family dinners.

Why Make This Recipe

This recipe is great because it’s easy to make and uses simple ingredients. It is healthy, filling, and provides lots of flavors. Plus, it can feed a crowd or be enjoyed as leftovers throughout the week.

How to Make Beef Barley Soup

Ingredients

• 1 pound beef stew meat, cubed
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 cup corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
• ½ cup pearl barley
• 6 cups beef broth
• 1 teaspoon thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: parsley for garnish

Directions

1. In a large pot, brown the cubed beef stew meat over medium heat until all sides are browned.
2. Add the diced carrots, celery, and onion to the pot, and sauté until the vegetables are softened.
3. Stir in the diced tomatoes (with juices), corn, pearl barley, beef broth, thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 30-40 minutes, or until the barley is tender and the beef is cooked through.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
6. Serve hot and garnish with parsley if desired.

How to Serve Beef Barley Soup

Serve Beef Barley Soup hot in bowls. It goes well with crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal.

How to Store Beef Barley Soup

You can store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, freeze it for up to 3 months. Just thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Tips to Make Beef Barley Soup

• Make sure to cut the beef into small, even pieces for quick cooking.
• Let the soup simmer longer for a richer flavor.
• Feel free to add other vegetables you like, such as potatoes or green beans.

Variation (If Any)

You can use chicken instead of beef for a lighter version. Also, try adding different spices like bay leaves or garlic for added flavor.

FAQs

Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe?
Yes, you can brown the meat first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours.

What if I can’t find pearl barley?
You can substitute with another type of grain like brown rice or quinoa, but the cooking time may change.

Is this soup gluten-free?
No, traditional pearl barley contains gluten. You can replace it with a gluten-free grain if you need a gluten-free option.