Hearty Beef and Barley Stew

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook: 8 hours
🍽 Serves: 6
★★★★★
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Nothing beats a warm bowl of stew on a chilly day, and this Hearty Beef and Barley Stew is just the ticket. With tender beef, nutty barley, and a medley of vegetables, it’s a comforting classic that fills the house with enticing aromas.

Ingredients for Hearty Beef and Barley Stew

The star here is beef stew meat, which becomes meltingly tender after a long, slow cook. Pearl barley adds a hearty, chewy texture and soaks up all the savory juices. Beef broth and water form the flavorful base of our stew. Carrots, celery, and onion bring sweetness and depth, while garlic adds a warm, aromatic note. A touch of thyme and a bay leaf round it all out with herbal notes. Season with salt and pepper to your liking.

Tips & Tricks

  • For a richer flavor, try browning the beef in batches to avoid crowding the pan.
  • If you prefer a thicker stew, mash a few pieces of the cooked carrots and stir them back in.
  • Use a ladle to occasionally skim off excess fat from the stew while it's cooking.

Serving Suggestions

This stew is perfect with a crusty loaf of bread for dipping. If you’re feeling extra indulgent, serve it with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, you can substitute with lamb or chicken, adjusting the cooking time as needed.
Is there a way to make this vegetarian?
Absolutely! Swap the beef for mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Hearty Beef and Barley Stew Recipe Walkthrough

Start by searing your beef in a skillet over medium heat. You want a nice brown crust on all sides, which will add depth to your stew. Once browned, transfer the beef to your slow cooker.

Add the pearl barley, beef broth, and water to the slow cooker. Toss in the carrots, celery, onion, and garlic. These veggies will soften and impart their flavors as they cook.

Sprinkle the thyme over the top, add the bay leaf, and season with salt and pepper. Give everything a good stir to combine. Cover the slow cooker and set it to low. Let it cook for 6-8 hours until the beef is tender and the barley is cooked through.

Before serving, remember to fish out the bay leaf. Give the stew a taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Slow cooker simplicity: Let it simmer all day while you go about your business.
  • Nutritious and filling: Packed with protein and fiber to keep you satisfied.
  • One-pot wonder: Minimal cleanup and maximum flavor.
  • Perfect for batch cooking: Freezes well for future meals.

Ingredients

1 lb beef stew meat
1 cup pearl barley
4 cups beef broth
1 cup water
3 carrots, sliced
2 stalks celery, chopped
1 onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp thyme
1 bay leaf
Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-step Instructions

1. In a skillet over medium heat, sear the beef until browned on all sides.
2. Transfer the beef to a slow cooker.
3. Add the pearl barley, beef broth, water, carrots, celery, onion, and garlic to the slow cooker.
4. Season with thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper.
5. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or until the beef is tender and the barley is cooked.
6. Remove the bay leaf before serving and adjust seasoning if necessary.

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