Slow Cooker Beef & Barley Soup
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When the chill of autumn settles in or the first snowflakes begin to fall, a steaming bowl of soup can feel like a warm hug. One of my go-to recipes for these cozy days is Homemade Slow Cooker Beef & Barley Soup. This hearty dish marries tender beef with the satisfying chew of barley and the bright crunch of vegetables, all simmered to perfection in a savory broth. What’s not to love? The slow cooker takes the guesswork out of meal prep, allowing you to prepare a nourishing family dinner without hovering over the stove.
Why you’ll love this dish
This isn’t just soup; it’s comfort in a bowl! Homemade Slow Cooker Beef & Barley Soup is perfect for busy weeknights or lazy Sunday gatherings. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and wholesome ingredients. It’s budget-friendly, making it an excellent choice for feeding a crowd without breaking the bank. Plus, the flavors meld beautifully as it cooks, offering a rich, robust taste that will have your family and friends coming back for seconds.
"This soup is a lifesaver on cold days! The beef is tender, and the barley adds a delightful texture. Perfect for a comforting family meal!" – A satisfied home cook
The cooking process explained
Let’s dive into how this deliciousness comes together! The best part about this soup is that it’s virtually hands-free. After a quick sear of the beef—which unlocks a depth of flavor—you simply toss everything into the slow cooker and let the magic happen. The slow-cooking method allows the flavors to develop gradually and ensures the beef becomes fall-apart tender. Here’s a quick overview of the steps ahead: sear the beef, throw the ingredients into the slow cooker, and walk away for 6 to 8 hours. Easy, right?
What you’ll need
Gather these essential ingredients to create your mouthwatering Homemade Slow Cooker Beef & Barley Soup:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 lbs beef roast
- 2 medium carrots, sliced thinly
- 2 stalks celery, sliced
- 1 large yellow onion, diced finely
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp freshly chopped parsley
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 6 cups beef broth
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 cup barley
- 1 (14.5 oz) can sweet corn, drained
Feel free to experiment with substitute ingredients—like using vegetable broth for a lighter version or adding your favorite herbs for a unique twist!
Step-by-step instructions
Ready to get cooking? Here’s how to prepare your soup:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear the beef roast in the skillet, browning it on all sides. This step locks in flavor!
- Transfer the beef to the bottom of a slow cooker.
- Add the vegetables and herbs: Toss in the carrots, celery, onions, garlic, parsley, oregano, thyme, beef broth, tomatoes, bay leaf, and barley.
- Set your slow cooker to low and cook for 6 to 8 hours.
- In the last 30 minutes of cooking, stir in the drained corn for a sweet crunch.
- Serve and enjoy!
Best ways to enjoy it
This soup is a meal in itself, but why not elevate your dining experience? Consider serving it with freshly baked bread or a side salad for a balanced meal. For a heartier option, pair it with a cheese toastie. And don’t forget a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top for that perfect finish!
Storage and reheating tips
Want to save some for later? This soup stores beautifully! Simply allow it to cool completely before transferring it into airtight containers. In the fridge, it’ll last for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze individual portions for up to three months. When reheating, be sure to do so gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, ensuring it’s heated all the way through.
Helpful cooking tips
For the best flavor, don’t rush the searing process of the beef. Let it get a nice golden crust—this adds layers of depth to your soup. Additionally, you can adjust the consistency of your soup; if you prefer it thicker, add a little more barley or reduce the amount of broth slightly.
Creative twists
Looking to shake things up? Try adding a splash of red wine for richness, or replace the barley with quinoa or rice for a gluten-free version. You could also throw in your favorite legumes for added protein or spice things up with a dash of cayenne pepper.
Your questions answered
- How long does this soup take to prepare? The active preparation time is only about 15-20 minutes, while the slow cooker takes care of the rest!
- Can I use frozen vegetables? Absolutely! Just ensure you thaw them slightly before adding them to the slow cooker.
- Is this soup safe to freeze? Yes, this soup freezes very well. Just make sure to properly cool and store it in air-tight containers.
With this deliciously hearty Homemade Slow Cooker Beef & Barley Soup, you’re sure to create a meal that warms the soul and brings smiles to the table. Happy cooking!
Homemade Slow Cooker Beef & Barley Soup
Ingredients
Method
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear the beef roast in the skillet, browning it on all sides.
- Transfer the beef to the bottom of a slow cooker.
- Add the carrots, celery, onions, garlic, parsley, oregano, thyme, beef broth, diced tomatoes, bay leaf, and barley to the slow cooker.
- Set your slow cooker to low and cook for 6 to 8 hours.
- In the last 30 minutes of cooking, stir in the drained corn.
- Serve and enjoy!
