Nothing warms the soul on a chilly day quite like a bowl of Beef Barley Soup. This hearty, satisfying meal combines tender beef, wholesome barley, and a medley of vegetables, simmered to perfection in a savory broth. Whether you’re gathering with family or enjoying a quiet night in, this soup is sure to bring comfort with every spoonful.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb beef stew meat, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 6 cups beef broth
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup barley
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Servings: 6-8
Instructions
- Brown the Beef
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef pieces, searing until browned on all sides. Transfer the beef to a plate and set aside. - Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pot, add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes or until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant. - Add the Liquids and Seasoning
Pour in the beef broth and water, stirring well to combine. Return the browned beef to the pot, along with the barley and bay leaf. Season with salt and pepper to taste. - Simmer to Perfection
Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover. Let it simmer for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the beef is tender, and the barley is cooked through, absorbing all the rich flavors of the broth. - Serve and Enjoy
Remove the bay leaf before serving. Ladle the soup into bowls, garnishing with fresh parsley if desired. Serve with crusty bread for an extra cozy experience.
Tips for the Best Beef Barley Soup
- Choose the Right Beef: Opt for stew meat, which becomes tender as it cooks. Chuck roast, cut into small pieces, also works beautifully.
- Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a thicker soup, add a little extra barley. For a lighter soup, add more broth or water.
- Make It a Meal: Pair this soup with a green salad or warm bread for a complete meal that’s as satisfying as it is wholesome.
FAQs
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes! In fact, Beef Barley Soup often tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Simply reheat over medium heat until warmed through.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in a pot over low heat, adding a splash of water if the soup has thickened too much.
Can I freeze this soup?
Absolutely. This soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove when ready to serve.
Share the Warmth!
If this Beef Barley Soup recipe brings a smile to your table, be sure to share it with friends and family on Pinterest and Facebook.