Hearty Beef Barley Soup is your ultimate comfort dish, perfect for those chilly evenings when you crave something warm and filling. This recipe combines tender beef, wholesome barley, and flavorful vegetables, creating a satisfying meal that's as nourishing as it is delicious.
Beef stew meat is the heart of this soup, providing a rich, meaty flavor and becoming wonderfully tender as it cooks. Vegetable oil is used for browning the meat, which builds a flavorful base. Onion and garlic add aromatics, enhancing the soup's depth. Carrots and celery bring a hearty texture and sweetness, balancing the savory notes. Pearl barley is a nutritious grain that thickens the soup, making it a complete meal. Beef broth ties everything together with its robust flavor. Diced tomatoes add a touch of acidity and color. Dried thyme and a bay leaf provide subtle herbal notes. Finally, season with salt and pepper to taste.
This Hearty Beef Barley Soup pairs beautifully with a crusty loaf of sourdough bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal. For a touch of freshness, garnish with chopped parsley or a dollop of sour cream.
Start by heating your pot over medium-high heat and adding the vegetable oil. Once the oil is shimmering, add your beef stew meat. Let it brown on all sides, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Don't rush this step; browning the meat adds depth to your soup. Once browned, remove the beef and set it aside.
In the same pot, toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them until the onion becomes translucent, stirring occasionally to prevent burning. This should take about 3-4 minutes.
Next, add the sliced carrots and celery. Cook them for another 5 minutes, letting them soften slightly while soaking up all those delicious flavors left from the beef.
Return the beef to the pot along with the pearl barley. Pour in the beef broth and diced tomatoes (including the liquid), then sprinkle in the dried thyme and add the bay leaf. Give it a good stir and bring everything to a boil.
Once the soup is boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 60-70 minutes. This is where the magic happens, as all the flavors meld together and the barley becomes tender. Remember to give it a stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Before serving, season your soup with salt and pepper to taste, and don't forget to remove the bay leaf. Now it's time to enjoy!
Share