Beef Barley Soup

This Beef Barley Soup is a comforting dish that warms you from the inside out. It’s perfect for chilly evenings or gatherings with family and friends. Loaded with tender beef, nutritious vegetables, and hearty barley, this soup offers both flavor and satisfaction. You’ll love how easy it is to prepare, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hearty and Filling: This soup is packed with protein and fiber, ensuring a satisfying meal that keeps you full.
• Rich in Flavor: The combination of beef, herbs, and vegetables creates a deliciously rich broth that tantalizes your taste buds.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps and accessible ingredients, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time.
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to adjust the vegetables based on what you have on hand, making it adaptable for different diets.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This soup stores well in the fridge or freezer, making it ideal for batch cooking.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this hearty recipe, gather your essential tools to make the cooking process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Dutch oven or heavy pot
• Chopping board
• Knife
• Measuring spoons
• Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven or heavy pot: This tool is perfect for even heat distribution, allowing the beef to brown nicely while simmering the soup perfectly.
• Chopping board: A sturdy surface helps keep your prep work organized and safe while chopping vegetables.
• Measuring spoons: Accurate measurements ensure that each ingredient contributes its unique flavor without overpowering others.

Ingredients

This Beef Barley Soup is hearty, rich and flavorful. It’s loaded with tender chunks of beef, healthy vegetables and barley. This delicious soup is so satisfying and perfect for a cold day.

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound beef stew meat
• ¾ teaspoon Kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 medium yellow onion (chopped)
• 3 ribs celery (chopped)
• 3 carrots (chopped into ½-inch pieces)
• 8 ounces cremini mushrooms (sliced)
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 6 cups low sodium beef broth (or low sodium chicken broth, plus more as needed)
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 2 bay leaves
• ¾ cup pearl barley (rinsed)
• chopped fresh parsley (for serving)

How to Make Beef Barley Soup

Step 1: Brown the Beef

1. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or other heavy pot over medium-high heat.
2. Once hot, add the stew beef cubes to the pot and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
3. Cook until browned on all sides and then remove the beef to a clean plate.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

1. Add the chopped onion, celery, carrots, and sliced mushrooms to the pot.
2. Cook until the vegetables start to soften, about 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 3: Add Aromatics

1. Add minced garlic, dried thyme, and tomato paste to the pot.
2. Stir well and cook for an additional minute.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

1. Return the browned beef along with any juices back into the pot.
2. Pour in the low sodium beef broth along with Worcestershire sauce and add bay leaves.
3. Stir everything together well.

Step 5: Simmer

1. Bring the soup to a simmer.
2. Reduce heat to low while maintaining a gentle simmer; cover the pot.
3. Cook for about 45 minutes.

Step 6: Add Barley

1. Stir in rinsed pearl barley into the pot.
2. Cover again and simmer for an additional 45–60 minutes until both barley and beef are tender.

Step 7: Final Touches

1. Remove bay leaves from the soup before serving.
2. Adjust seasonings by adding more salt or pepper if necessary; stir in additional broth if needed.
3. Serve hot garnished with fresh parsley.

This hearty Beef Barley Soup will surely become a favorite in your household! Enjoy every warm bowlful!

How to Serve Beef Barley Soup

Beef Barley Soup is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions that enhance the overall experience of this hearty meal.

With Fresh Bread

• Crusty Baguette: A warm, crusty baguette is perfect for dipping into the rich soup.
• Garlic Bread: The buttery garlic flavor complements the soup’s richness beautifully.

With Salad

• Caesar Salad: The crisp romaine and creamy dressing balance the heartiness of the soup.
• Mixed Greens: A light salad with vinaigrette adds freshness and acidity.

Garnished with Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: Sprinkling fresh parsley on top enhances flavor and presentation.
• Thyme Sprigs: Adding a sprig of thyme elevates the aromatic experience.

How to Perfect Beef Barley Soup

Achieving the perfect Beef Barley Soup requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your soup turns out delicious every time.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and quality beef make a significant difference in flavor.
• Brown the Meat Well: Browning the beef adds depth and richness to the broth.
• Simmer Slowly: Allowing the soup to simmer on low heat helps meld flavors together beautifully.
• Adjust Seasonings Gradually: Tasting as you go ensures balanced flavors; add salt and pepper incrementally.
• Add Barley at the Right Time: Stir in barley towards the end of cooking for optimal texture; it should be tender but not mushy.

Best Side Dishes for Beef Barley Soup

Pairing side dishes with Beef Barley Soup enhances your meal. Here are some fantastic options.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes provide comfort and pair well with soup.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add color, flavor, and nutrition.
3. Cornbread: This slightly sweet bread contrasts nicely with savory soup flavors.
4. Stuffed Peppers: Flavorful stuffed peppers offer a hearty side that complements the soup’s richness.
5. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad brings a healthy grain option, adding texture and flavor.
6. Cheese Toasties: Melted cheese on toasted bread makes for a delightful crunchy contrast to soft soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Beef Barley Soup can be straightforward, but some common missteps can hinder your results. Here are key mistakes to avoid:

• Skipping the browning step: Failing to brown the beef first can result in a less flavorful soup. Always brown your beef for richer taste.
• Not seasoning properly: Under-seasoning can leave your soup bland. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as you go for optimal flavor.
• Overcooking barley: Cooking barley for too long may lead to mushy texture. Add it during the last simmer phase to keep it firm.
• Ignoring vegetable prep: Chopping vegetables inconsistently can cause uneven cooking. Aim for uniform pieces for even tenderness.
• Rushing the simmering time: Not allowing enough time for the flavors to meld will affect the depth of flavor. Be patient and let it simmer as directed.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Beef Barley Soup in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Beef Barley Soup

• Place cooled soup in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Beef Barley Soup

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in intervals, stirring between them until hot.
• Stovetop: Pour into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some common questions about Beef Barley Soup:

What is Beef Barley Soup?

Beef Barley Soup is a hearty dish made with tender beef, barley, and various vegetables simmered in broth. It’s known for its rich flavor and comforting qualities.

How long does Beef Barley Soup last?

When stored properly, Beef Barley Soup lasts about 3-4 days in the refrigerator and can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Can I make Beef Barley Soup ahead of time?

Yes! In fact, making it ahead allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just store it in the fridge or freezer until ready to enjoy.

Is Beef Barley Soup healthy?

Absolutely! This soup is packed with nutrients from vegetables and barley while being relatively low in calories. It’s a great option for a balanced meal.

Can I customize my Beef Barley Soup?

Yes! Feel free to add any vegetables you have on hand or substitute different meats like chicken or turkey based on your preference.

Final Thoughts

This Beef Barley Soup is not only delicious but also versatile, allowing for personal touches and ingredient swaps. Perfect for chilly days, this recipe promises warmth and satisfaction with every bowl. Give it a try and make it your own!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Beef Barley Soup

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• Author: Vanessa
• Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves about 6

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Description

Beef Barley Soup is a wholesome and comforting dish that warms your soul with every spoonful. This nourishing soup combines tender beef, a medley of vegetables, and hearty barley, making it an ideal choice for chilly evenings or family gatherings. With its rich flavors and satisfying texture, it’s not only a delightful meal but also easy to prepare, ensuring you can enjoy a delicious home-cooked dinner without hassle. Perfect for meal prepping, this soup stores well in the fridge or freezer, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights.

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Ingredients

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• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound beef stew meat
• ¾ teaspoon Kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 medium yellow onion (chopped)
• 3 ribs celery (chopped)
• 3 carrots (chopped into ½-inch pieces)
• 8 ounces cremini mushrooms (sliced)
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 6 cups low sodium beef broth (or low sodium chicken broth)
• 2 bay leaves
• ¾ cup pearl barley (rinsed)
• chopped fresh parsley (for serving)

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Instructions

1. In a large Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add beef stew meat seasoned with salt and pepper; brown on all sides, then set aside.
2. Sauté chopped onion, celery, carrots, and sliced mushrooms in the same pot until softened (about 5–6 minutes).
3. Stir in minced garlic, dried thyme, and tomato paste; cook for 1 minute.
4. Return browned beef to the pot along with any juices. Pour in the broth and add bay leaves; stir well.
5. Bring to a simmer, reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 45 minutes.
6. Add rinsed pearl barley to the pot; cover again and simmer for another 45–60 minutes until both barley and beef are tender.
7. Remove bay leaves before serving; adjust seasoning if needed and garnish with fresh parsley.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 90 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 310
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 670mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 33g
• Fiber: 7g
• Protein: 24g
• Cholesterol: 65mg