Beef Barley Soup

This Beef Barley Soup is a comforting dish that warms you from the inside out. It’s filled with tender beef, hearty vegetables, and chewy barley, making it the perfect meal for a chilly day. This soup not only boasts rich flavors but also offers a satisfying blend of nutrients, making it suitable for family dinners or cozy gatherings with friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hearty and Filling: Packed with beef and barley, this soup provides a good balance of protein and carbs to keep you satisfied.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and common ingredients, this recipe can be made by cooks of all skill levels.
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to swap in any seasonal vegetables you have on hand for a different twist each time.
• Meal Prep Friendly: This soup stores well, making it great for meal prep. Enjoy it throughout the week!
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a gathering, this soup fits right in.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Beef Barley Soup, having the right tools is essential. Below are the key items you will need for preparation.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring spoons
• Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven: Ideal for slow cooking, it distributes heat evenly, ensuring your soup simmers perfectly.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping all your fresh ingredients efficiently.
• Sharp knife: A sharp knife makes quick work of cutting vegetables and meat, enhancing your prep time.

Ingredients

For the Soup Base

• 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)

Flavor Enhancers

• 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

For Texture

• ¾ cup pearl barley (rinsed)
• Chopped fresh parsley (for serving)

How to Make Beef Barley Soup

Step 1: Brown the Beef

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

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

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

Step 3: Add Flavors

Add the garlic, dried thyme, and tomato paste to the pot. Cook while stirring for about 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Return the browned beef and any juices from the plate back to the pot.

Step 5: Simmer the Soup

Add the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and bay leaves. Stir well. Bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce heat to low so that it maintains a low simmer. Cover the pot and cook on low heat for about 45 minutes.

Step 6: Add Barley

Stir in the pearl barley. Cover again and let it simmer for an additional 45–60 minutes until both barley and beef are tender.

Step 7: Final Touches

Remove and discard bay leaves. If too much broth has evaporated during cooking, stir in more broth as needed. Warm over medium heat if necessary. Adjust seasonings by adding more salt and pepper if desired before serving garnished with fresh parsley.

Enjoy your hearty Beef Barley Soup!

How to Serve Beef Barley Soup

Beef Barley Soup is a warm and filling dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Pairing it with the right sides or garnishes can enhance its flavors and make for a complete meal.

Garnish Options

• Chopped Fresh Parsley – Adds a pop of color and freshness to your soup.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese – A sprinkle of cheese brings richness and depth.
• Croutons – Add crunch and texture to each spoonful.

Accompaniments

• Crusty Bread – Ideal for dipping, a thick slice of sourdough or baguette complements the soup perfectly.
• Green Salad – A light salad with vinaigrette balances the heartiness of the soup.
• Pickles or Relish – The tanginess cuts through the richness, providing a nice contrast.

How to Perfect Beef Barley Soup

Crafting the ideal Beef Barley Soup requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to enhance your recipe.

• Use Quality Ingredients – Fresh vegetables and high-quality beef make a significant difference in flavor.
• Brown the Meat Well – Ensure you achieve a nice sear on the beef for added depth in taste.
• Season Gradually – Taste as you go; add salt and pepper at different stages for balanced seasoning.
• Choose the Right Broth – Opt for low sodium options so you can control the saltiness better.
• Adjust Thickness – If the soup is too thick, add more broth gradually until desired consistency is reached.

Best Side Dishes for Beef Barley Soup

Complementing your Beef Barley Soup with side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some delicious options to consider.

1. Garlic Bread – Perfectly toasted and buttery, garlic bread is an irresistible companion.
2. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized add nutrition and flavor variety.
3. Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine tossed with creamy dressing provides a refreshing contrast.
4. Stuffed Peppers – Filled with rice or quinoa, these peppers add a hearty touch without overshadowing the soup.
5. Coleslaw – A crunchy slaw with tangy dressing brightens up your meal experience.
6. Cheese Biscuits – Soft, cheesy biscuits are perfect for soaking up every drop of soup!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Beef Barley Soup can be easy, but there are some common mistakes to watch out for to ensure your soup is perfect.

• Using tough cuts of beef: Always choose tender cuts like stew meat for a more flavorful and tender outcome. Tough cuts can lead to chewy pieces that detract from the soup’s texture.
• Overcrowding the pot: Avoid adding too many ingredients at once, as this can lower the cooking temperature. Cook in batches if necessary to achieve even browning and flavor development.
• Neglecting seasoning: Don’t forget to taste and adjust the seasonings throughout the cooking process. Adding salt early on can enhance flavors, but you may need to adjust it later as well.
• Skipping the browning step: Browning the beef adds depth and richness to your soup. Make sure to take your time with this step for maximum flavor.
• Not allowing enough simmer time: Rushing the simmering process can result in undercooked barley and tough beef. Give your soup enough time to develop its flavors fully.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Let it cool completely before sealing to avoid condensation.

Freezing Beef Barley Soup

• Freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space in containers for expansion when freezing.

Reheating Beef Barley Soup

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in microwave-safe bowls, stirring occasionally, until hot.
• Stovetop: Reheat over medium heat in a pot, stirring often, until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Beef Barley Soup that you might find helpful.

Can I use other grains instead of barley?

Yes, you can substitute barley with other grains like quinoa or farro. Adjust cooking times accordingly, as different grains require different cooking durations.

What can I serve with Beef Barley Soup?

This hearty soup pairs well with crusty bread, salads, or simple roasted vegetables. They provide nice contrasts in texture and flavor.

How do I make my Beef Barley Soup thicker?

If you’d like a thicker consistency, consider pureeing a portion of the soup and mixing it back in or adding a cornstarch slurry during cooking.

Can I make Beef Barley Soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, making it ahead allows flavors to meld beautifully. Store as directed above for optimal freshness when reheating.

Final Thoughts

This Beef Barley Soup is not only hearty but also versatile. You can customize it by adding different vegetables or using various herbs and spices according to your taste preferences. It’s perfect for warming up on chilly days or impressing guests at dinner!

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Beef Barley Soup

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• Author: Aileen
• Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Indulge in the ultimate comfort dish with this hearty Beef Barley Soup. This rich and flavorful soup combines tender beef, nutritious vegetables, and chewy barley for a satisfying meal that warms you from the inside out. Perfect for chilly days or cozy gatherings, it’s easy to prepare and allows for flexibility with seasonal veggies. Enjoy it as a family dinner or a delightful treat with friends – no matter the occasion, this soup is sure to impress.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 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)
• 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 cubes seasoned with salt and pepper. Brown on all sides and set aside.
2. In the same pot, sauté chopped onion, celery, carrots, and mushrooms until softened, about 5–6 minutes.
3. Stir in minced garlic, dried thyme, and tomato paste; cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Return the browned beef along with any juices to the pot.
5. Pour in beef broth and add bay leaves; bring to a simmer. Reduce heat and cover, cooking on low for 45 minutes.
6. Add rinsed pearl barley; cover again and simmer for another 45–60 minutes until both barley and beef are tender.
7. Discard bay leaves before serving, adjusting seasoning as needed and garnishing with fresh parsley.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 90 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 350g)
• Calories: 380
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 620mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fiber: 6g
• Protein: 32g
• Cholesterol: 85mg