Beef & Barley Soup is a hearty and comforting dish, perfect for chilly days. Packed with tender beef, vegetables, and nutritious barley, this soup offers a rich, savory flavor that satisfies. The addition of thyme and beef broth makes for a deeply flavorful base that complements the tender chunks of beef and chewy barley. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy family dinner or preparing a batch for meal prep, this soup is a winner.
Ingredients
- 1 lb beef stew meat, cubed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 cup pearl barley
- 6 cups beef broth
- 1 tsp thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- In a large pot, brown the beef stew meat over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion, sliced carrots, and chopped celery to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the pearl barley, beef broth, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 1 hour, until the beef is tender and the barley is fully cooked.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Variations
- Vegetarian Version: For a meat-free version, swap the beef stew meat for diced mushrooms or plant-based protein, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
- Add More Veggies: You can increase the vegetable content by adding potatoes, parsnips, or green beans for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Spices and Herbs: Customize the flavor by adding herbs such as rosemary, bay leaves, or a pinch of garlic powder for extra depth.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Beef & Barley Soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Reheat on the stove over low heat, adding extra broth if needed.
- Reheating: Reheat in a pot over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally. You may need to add a bit of water or broth if the soup thickens too much upon refrigeration.
10 FAQs
- Can I use a different type of meat?
- Yes, you can substitute beef stew meat with ground beef, chicken, or turkey, though the cooking times may vary for different meats.
- Can I use quick-cooking barley?
- Yes, quick-cooking barley can be used, but the cooking time will be shorter. Add it towards the end of cooking to prevent it from becoming too soft.
- Can I add potatoes to the soup?
- Absolutely! You can add diced potatoes along with the carrots and celery for a more filling soup.
- Is it necessary to brown the beef first?
- Browning the beef adds flavor and depth to the soup, but if you’re short on time, you can skip this step and add the beef directly to the pot.
- Can I use chicken broth instead of beef broth?
- Yes, chicken broth can be used as a substitute, though it will alter the flavor slightly. Beef broth is preferred for a richer taste.
- How do I make the soup thicker?
- If you prefer a thicker soup, you can use a cornstarch slurry (mix cornstarch with water) and stir it in during the last 10 minutes of simmering.
- Can I use frozen vegetables instead of fresh?
- Yes, frozen vegetables can be used in place of fresh ones, but fresh vegetables will retain a better texture when cooked in the soup.
- Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
- Yes, brown the beef in a skillet, then add all ingredients to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or until the beef is tender and the barley is cooked.
- How can I make the soup spicier?
- For a bit of heat, you can add crushed red pepper flakes, a diced jalapeño, or some hot sauce to the soup.
- Can I serve this soup with bread?
- Yes, a slice of crusty bread or crackers pairs wonderfully with this soup for a complete meal.
Conclusion
Beef & Barley Soup is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender beef, hearty barley, and a flavorful broth for a satisfying meal. It’s easy to make and perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. This classic soup can be customized to suit your tastes and dietary preferences, making it a versatile addition to your recipe collection. Whether served with crusty bread or enjoyed on its own, this soup is sure to be a hit with everyone at the table.
Print
Beef & Barley Soup
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Description
A hearty and comforting soup, this Beef & Barley Soup is made with tender beef stew meat, vegetables, and pearl barley, all simmered together in a savory broth. Perfect for chilly days or as a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
- 1 lb beef stew meat, cubed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 cup pearl barley
- 6 cups beef broth
- 1 tsp thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot, brown the beef stew meat over medium heat until browned on all sides.
- Add the chopped onion, sliced carrots, and chopped celery to the pot. Cook for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
- Stir in the pearl barley, beef broth, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 1 hour, until the beef is tender and the barley is cooked.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, then serve hot.
Notes
- For extra flavor, you can add a bay leaf or a splash of Worcestershire sauce while the soup simmers.
- Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for 2-3 days, or frozen for longer storage.
- Feel free to add more vegetables like peas, potatoes, or mushrooms for added texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour