Satisfy your cravings: uncover the easiest recipe for beef barley soup that’ll leave you craving more

Indulge in the comforting warmth of a hearty and flavorful beef barley soup. This classic dish is perfect for a chilly evening, a cozy weekend meal, or any occasion that calls for a comforting and satisfying meal. Our recipe for beef barley soup is a culinary masterpiece that will delight your taste buds and leave you feeling satisfied.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 pounds beef chuck roast, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups low-sodium beef broth
• 4 cups water
• 1 cup pearl barley
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. Brown the Beef: Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or stockpot over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes and cook until browned on all sides. Remove the beef from the pot and set aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: Add the onion, carrots, celery, and garlic to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the Liquids and Barley: Pour in the beef broth and water. Bring to a boil, then add the barley, peas, bay leaves, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper.
4. Simmer the Soup: Return the beef to the pot and reduce heat to low. Simmer for 2-3 hours, or until the beef is tender and the barley is cooked through.
5. Adjust Seasonings: Taste the soup and adjust the seasonings as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or herbs to your preference.

Variations

• Vegetable Barley Soup: Omit the beef and add extra vegetables, such as potatoes, green beans, or mushrooms.
• Slow Cooker Beef Barley Soup: Transfer all the ingredients to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
• Pressure Cooker Beef Barley Soup: Use a pressure cooker to cook the soup in under an hour. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

Tips

• For a richer flavor, use bone-in beef chuck roast.
• If you don’t have pearl barley, you can substitute with quick-cooking barley or farro.
• Add a splash of red wine to the soup for added depth of flavor.
• Serve the soup with a side of crusty bread or crackers for dipping.

Benefits of Beef Barley Soup

Beef barley soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits:

• Protein-Rich: The beef and barley provide a significant source of protein, essential for building and repairing tissues.
• Fiber-Filled: The barley is a good source of fiber, which promotes digestive health and satiety.
• Vitamin-Packed: The vegetables provide an array of vitamins, including vitamin A, vitamin C, and vitamin K.
• Immune-Boosting: The garlic and herbs have immune-boosting properties.

The Perfect Comfort Food

Whether you’re recovering from an illness, seeking solace on a cold day, or simply craving a comforting meal, this recipe for beef barley soup will hit the spot. Its hearty ingredients, rich flavor, and nutritional value make it the perfect choice for any occasion.

Ending on a High Note

Thank you for choosing our recipe for beef barley soup. We hope you enjoy this classic dish as much as we do. Bon appétit!

What You Need to Know

Q: Can I make this soup ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make this soup ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Q: Can I use different vegetables?
A: Yes, you can substitute or add different vegetables to your liking, such as potatoes, green beans, or mushrooms.
Q: How can I thicken the soup?
A: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can add a cornstarch slurry (equal parts cornstarch and water) to the soup and bring it to a boil.