Warm up with comforting beef barley soup, slow cooker magic!

Indulge in the warmth and nourishment of a hearty bowl of beef barley soup, effortlessly prepared in the convenience of your slow cooker. This classic comfort food combines tender beef, chewy barley, and an array of vegetables in a rich and flavorful broth. With its simple ingredients and hands-off cooking method, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 cup pearl barley
• 1/2 cup frozen peas
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

1. Season the Beef: In a large bowl, combine the beef stew meat, flour, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
2. Brown the Beef: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the beef cubes in batches, working in portions to avoid overcrowding the pan. Set aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, sauté the onion, carrots, and celery until softened about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the Tomato Sauce and Broth: Stir in the tomato sauce and beef broth. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
5. Transfer to Slow Cooker: Place the browned beef and sautéed vegetables in the slow cooker. Add the barley, peas, and parsley.
6. Cook on Low: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the beef is tender and the barley is cooked through.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Serve the beef barley soup hot with crusty bread or a side salad.

Tips for a Perfect Beef Barley Soup

• Use a good quality beef stew meat: This will ensure that the soup has a rich and flavorful broth.
• Brown the beef first: This step adds depth of flavor to the soup.
• Don’t overcrowd the skillet when browning the beef: This will prevent the beef from getting crispy and brown.
• Simmer the tomato sauce: This will help to thicken the sauce and develop the flavor.
• Cook the soup on low: This will allow the flavors to meld and the beef to become tender.
• Serve with crusty bread or a side salad: This will help to soak up the delicious broth.

Variations

• Add other vegetables: Such as potatoes, green beans, or corn.
• Use different types of barley: Such as quick-cooking barley or hulled barley.
• Make it spicy: By adding a dash of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.
• Top with cheese: Such as shredded cheddar or Parmesan cheese.

Benefits of Beef Barley Soup

• Nourishing: Beef barley soup is a good source of protein, carbohydrates, and vitamins.
• Comforting: The warm and hearty broth is perfect for cold weather.
• Easy to digest: Barley is a soluble fiber that is easy to digest, making this soup a good choice for people with sensitive stomachs.

The Bottom Line: Savor the Warmth of a Homemade Masterpiece

Indulge in the comforting warmth of a homemade beef barley soup, effortlessly prepared in your slow cooker. With its tender beef, chewy barley, and flavorful broth, this classic dish is a culinary delight that will nourish your body and soul. So gather your ingredients, fire up your slow cooker, and savor the joy of creating this heartwarming masterpiece.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use frozen beef stew meat for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use frozen beef stew meat. Just be sure to thaw it completely before browning.
Q: How can I thicken the soup if it’s too thin?
A: You can thicken the soup by adding a cornstarch slurry (equal parts cornstarch and water). Bring the soup to a simmer and whisk in the cornstarch slurry. Cook for 1-2 minutes, or until the soup has thickened.
Q: Can I make this soup ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make this soup ahead of time. Let it cool completely and then store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat the soup over medium heat until warmed through before serving.