Beef Barley Soup

Beef Barley Soup is a classic comfort dish that warms the soul with its rich, hearty flavors. This wholesome soup combines tender beef chunks, chewy barley, and an array of vegetables, creating a deliciously satisfying meal. Perfect for chilly days or when you crave a nourishing bowl of goodness, this recipe promises to become a staple in your kitchen.

Ingredients Benefits:

1. Beef: Packed with protein and essential nutrients, beef adds a robust flavor to the soup. It’s an excellent source of iron, zinc, and B vitamins, contributing to overall health.
2. Barley: This ancient grain brings a chewy texture and nutty flavor to the soup. Barley is a good source of fiber, aiding in digestion and promoting a feeling of fullness.
3. Vegetables: Carrots, celery, and onions not only enhance the soup’s flavor but also provide a variety of vitamins and minerals. These veggies contribute to the soup’s nutritional profile, making it a wholesome meal.
4. Broth: The base of the soup, whether beef or vegetable broth, infuses the dish with depth and savory notes. Broth is hydrating and contains essential minerals, making it a nourishing addition.
5. Herbs and Spices: Bay leaves, thyme, and black pepper add layers of aromatic goodness. Herbs not only elevate the flavor but also bring potential health benefits, including anti-inflammatory properties.

Beef Barley Soup

Recipe by Puredishes.com

0.0 from 0 votes

Course: Soups

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

30

minutes

Cooking time

40

minutes

Calories

300

kcal

A hearty and nutritious Beef Barley Soup that combines tender beef, chewy barley, and wholesome vegetables. Perfect for cold days, this soup is a comforting and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs beef stew meat, cubed

• 1 cup barley, rinsed

• 3 carrots, diced

• 2 celery stalks, chopped

• 1 large onion, finely chopped

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 8 cups beef or vegetable broth

• 2 bay leaves

• 1 tsp dried thyme

• Salt and black pepper to taste

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Directions

• Searing the Beef
  Season the beef cubes with salt and pepper.
  In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
  Sear the beef until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.
• Sautéing Aromatics
  In the same pot, add chopped onions and garlic.
  Sauté until onions are translucent.
  Add carrots and celery, cooking for an additional 3-4 minutes.
• Building the Flavor Base
  Return the seared beef to the pot.
  Pour in the broth, scraping the bottom to release any flavorful bits.
  Add bay leaves and dried thyme.
  Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer.
• Adding Barley
  Rinse barley under cold water.
  Add barley to the pot, stirring well.
  Simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours or until beef is tender and barley is cooked.
• Adjusting Seasoning
  Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
  Discard bay leaves before serving.
• Serving
  Ladle the soup into bowls.
  Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Notes

• For a thicker consistency, you can add a slurry of water and flour during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
• This soup freezes well, making it a convenient option for future meals.
• Experiment with additional herbs like rosemary or oregano for a personalized touch.