If you’re searching for a cozy meal that’s both nourishing and soul-warming, look no further than this Hearty Beef and Barley Soup. Packed with tender beef, wholesome barley, and a medley of vegetables in a savory broth, every spoonful promises comfort and satisfaction. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week ahead, this soup is a timeless classic that never disappoints.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of Hearty Beef and Barley Soup lies in its simple, honest ingredients. Each one plays a vital role: from the rich flavor of beef to the earthy chew of barley and the sweetness of carrots, everything works in harmony to create a balanced, delicious soup.
- Stew beef (1 lb, cut into bite-sized pieces): Look for well-marbled beef for melt-in-your-mouth tenderness and hearty flavor.
- Pearl barley (1 cup): This nutty grain thickens the soup and adds a satisfying texture.
- Carrots (3, chopped): They bring natural sweetness and a pop of color to every bowl.
- Celery (2 stalks, chopped): Essential for that classic soup aroma and a subtle crunch.
- Onion (1, diced): It forms the base of flavor, adding depth and savoriness.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Just the right amount for aromatic warmth without overpowering the broth.
- Diced tomatoes (1 can): These add a tangy, juicy twist and help round out the flavors.
- Beef broth (8 cups): The backbone of the soup, making every bite rich and comforting.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): Season as you go to highlight all those wonderful ingredients.
- Fresh parsley (for garnish): A sprinkle at the end lifts the flavors and adds a burst of freshness.
How to Make Hearty Beef and Barley Soup
Step 1: Brown the Beef
Start by heating a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the stew beef pieces and let them brown on all sides. This step is crucial — browning locks in flavor and gives the soup a deep, savory base that sets the stage for everything else. Take your time and don’t rush; you want a nice sear for that irresistible beefy taste.
Step 2: Add Aromatics
Once the beef is browned, toss in the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant. This helps infuse the oil and beef with those classic soup flavors, forming a rich, aromatic foundation for your Hearty Beef and Barley Soup.
Step 3: Layer in Veggies and Grains
Next, stir in the chopped carrots, celery, the can of diced tomatoes (with their juices), pearl barley, and pour in the beef broth. Each ingredient adds its own texture and taste, creating a layered, rustic soup that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening.
Step 4: Simmer to Perfection
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then immediately reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer uncovered for about 1 hour. During this time, the beef becomes meltingly tender, the barley swells and softens, and the flavors mingle beautifully. Stir occasionally and check that the barley isn’t sticking to the bottom of the pot.
Step 5: Season and Serve
Once the beef is tender and the barley is cooked through, taste and season with salt and pepper. A little seasoning goes a long way, so add gradually and sample as you go! Ladle the hot Hearty Beef and Barley Soup into bowls and finish with a generous sprinkle of fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
How to Serve Hearty Beef and Barley Soup
Garnishes
For the perfect finishing touch, garnish each bowl of soup with chopped fresh parsley. If you’re feeling adventurous, try a sprinkle of grated Parmesan or a swirl of extra-virgin olive oil. These little additions enhance the soup’s flavors and add a lovely visual appeal.
Side Dishes
Hearty Beef and Barley Soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread, buttery rolls, or even a slice of rustic sourdough for dipping. For a lighter pairing, a crisp green salad with a zesty vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the soup’s richness.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your soup in deep, wide bowls for a rustic, homey vibe, or ladle it into mugs for a cozy, fireside feel. If you’re hosting, offer a toppings bar with fresh herbs, shredded cheese, and croutons so everyone can customize their bowl of Hearty Beef and Barley Soup just the way they like it.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This soup keeps wonderfully in the fridge! Let any leftovers cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. Stored properly, Hearty Beef and Barley Soup will stay fresh for up to 4 days. The flavors only deepen with time, making leftovers even more delicious.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, this soup is freezer-friendly. Portion cooled soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving a bit of room for expansion. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to maintain the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot. If the soup has thickened too much in the fridge or freezer, just add a splash of beef broth or water to return it to your desired consistency. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed before serving again.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of beef?
Absolutely! While stew beef is traditional for Hearty Beef and Barley Soup, you can also use chuck roast, brisket, or even leftover roast beef. Just make sure to cut the meat into bite-sized pieces so it cooks evenly and stays tender.
Is there a gluten-free option for barley?
Barley contains gluten, so substitute with brown rice or quinoa if you need a gluten-free version. Both will give you a slightly different texture, but the soup will still be hearty and delicious!
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can! Brown the beef and sauté the aromatics first, then add everything to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours until the beef is tender and the barley is cooked through.
What vegetables can I add or substitute?
This soup is very forgiving. Feel free to toss in potatoes, parsnips, peas, green beans, or even spinach in the last few minutes of cooking. It’s a great way to use up extra veggies and tailor the soup to your taste.
How do I prevent the barley from getting mushy?
The key is not to overcook it. Pearl barley holds its shape well, but if you prefer firmer grains, you can cook the barley separately and add it to the soup just before serving. That way, it keeps its texture even after reheating.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite as comforting as sharing a steaming bowl of Hearty Beef and Barley Soup with the people you love. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting out, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Give it a try and experience the warmth and joy it brings to your table!
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Hearty Beef and Barley Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Soup
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This hearty beef and barley soup is a comforting, nutritious meal perfect for chilly days. Tender stew beef simmers with pearl barley, fresh vegetables, and rich beef broth to create a filling and flavorful soup that serves six.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb stew beef, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup pearl barley
- 3 carrots, chopped
- 2 stalks celery, chopped
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 8 cups beef broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Brown the beef: In a large pot over medium-high heat, add the stew beef and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. This step locks in flavor and enhances the soup’s richness.
- Sauté aromatics: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the onions become translucent and soften, releasing their sweet aroma.
- Add vegetables and liquids: Stir in the chopped carrots, celery, diced tomatoes (with juices), beef broth, and pearl barley. Mix well to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Simmer the soup: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer gently for about 1 hour, or until the beef is tender and the barley is fully cooked.
- Season to taste: Add salt and pepper according to your preference. Stir well to distribute the seasonings evenly throughout the soup.
- Serve: Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and fresh flavor. Enjoy warm for a nourishing meal.
Notes
- This soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and reheated easily.
- For a thicker soup, reduce the broth slightly or add more barley.
- Feel free to substitute beef broth with vegetable broth for a lighter flavor.
- If you prefer, use steel-cut oats instead of barley for a different texture.
- Use low-sodium broth to control sodium content.
- To save time, brown the beef in batches to avoid overcrowding the pot.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approx. 1.5 cups)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 5 g
- Protein: 28 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg
