This Beef and Barley Soup is a wholesome, comforting dish packed with tender beef, chewy barley, and flavorful vegetables. Perfect for chilly days or when you’re craving a nourishing bowl of soup, this recipe is a classic you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients
For the Soup:
Beef stew meat: 1 lb, cut into small cubes
Olive oil: 1 tbsp
Onion: 1 medium, diced
Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
Carrots: 2 medium, diced
Celery: 2 stalks, diced
Pearl barley: 1 cup
Beef broth: 6 cups
Diced tomatoes: 1 cup (canned or fresh)
Dried thyme: 1 tsp
Smoked paprika: 1 tsp
Bay leaves: 2
Salt and black pepper: To taste
For Garnish:
Fresh parsley: 2 tbsp, chopped
Directions
Step 1: Sear the Beef
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
Add the beef cubes in a single layer and sear until browned on all sides. Remove the beef from the pot and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pot, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
Add the diced carrots and celery, cooking for another 5 minutes until softened.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Stir in the pearl barley, beef broth, diced tomatoes, dried thyme, smoked paprika, and bay leaves.
Return the seared beef to the pot and mix well.
Step 4: Simmer
Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the soup simmer for 45-50 minutes, or until the barley is tender and the beef is cooked through.
Step 5: Season and Serve
Discard the bay leaves.
Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed.
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty soup with crusty bread or homemade dinner rolls for a complete meal.
Pair it with a light green salad to balance the richness.
Tips for the Best Beef and Barley Soup
Choose the Right Beef: Use stew meat or chuck roast for tender results after simmering.
Boost the Flavor: For a richer broth, substitute 1 cup of beef broth with a splash of red wine or add a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce.
Vegetable Variations: Add mushrooms, parsnips, or green beans for extra nutrition and flavor.
Barley Options: If you prefer a quicker-cooking barley, use quick-cooking barley, but adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Calories: 310 kcal
Protein: 22g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Fat: 10g
Fiber: 5g
Why You’ll Love This Soup
This Beef and Barley Soup is easy to make, incredibly filling, and loaded with flavors that develop beautifully as it simmers. It’s a one-pot wonder that’s perfect for meal prep or enjoying fresh off the stove. Whether you’re looking to warm up on a cold day or serve a crowd, this soup is sure to impress.
Enjoy the cozy flavors of this hearty classic! 🍲
