Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Hearty Beef And Barley Soup Recipe

Hearty Beef And Barley Soup Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.6 from 38 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Yield: 6 1x

Description

Comforting beef and barley soup brings warmth from European kitchens with rich, slow-simmered flavor. Savory meat, tender vegetables, and hearty grains combine in a soul-satisfying bowl perfect for wintry days you’ll crave again and again.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Protein:

  • 1 lb (450 g) beef stew meat, cut into bite-sized pieces

Vegetables and Aromatics:

  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 carrots, sliced
  • 2 celery stalks, sliced
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced

Liquid, Grains, and Seasonings:

  • 6 cups beef broth (low sodium preferred)
  • 1 cup water
  • ¾ cup pearl barley, rinsed
  • 1 (14.5 ounces) can diced tomatoes (with juice)
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • ½ teaspoon dried rosemary
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped
  • Crusty bread for serving

Instructions

  1. Initiate the meat preparation by heating olive oil in a robust cooking vessel over medium-high temperature.
  2. Generously season the beef cuts, then methodically sear each batch, creating a rich caramelized exterior. Rotate pieces to ensure uniform browning, developing deep flavor profiles. Transfer perfectly seared meat to a separate plate.
  3. In the same cooking vessel, introduce remaining oil and gently transform chopped onions, carrots, and celery until they soften and release aromatic essence. Incorporate minced garlic, allowing its pungent notes to permeate the vegetable medley.
  4. Reintroduce the seared beef to the vegetable foundation. Pour in beef broth, tomatoes, and introduce barley along with fragrant bay leaves, thyme, and rosemary. Stir thoroughly to marry ingredients.
  5. Elevate liquid to a vigorous boil, then immediately reduce heat, creating a gentle simmer. Cover and allow ingredients to meld and tenderize for approximately three-quarters of an hour.
  6. Assess the soup’s consistency and protein tenderness. If required, extend cooking duration by 10-15 minutes to achieve optimal texture.
  7. Eliminate bay leaves and refine seasoning with strategic salt and pepper adjustments.
  8. Ladle into warm bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and complement with rustic bread or crisp crackers for a complete culinary experience.

Notes

  • Brown the beef in batches to develop a deep, rich flavor and prevent overcrowding in the pot.
  • Use high-quality beef cuts like chuck or stew meat for maximum tenderness and rich taste.
  • Select pearl barley for a creamy texture and quicker cooking time compared to hulled barley.
  • Add a splash of red wine while browning beef to enhance the overall depth and complexity of the soup’s flavor profile.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
  • Method: Simmering
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 4 g
  • Sodium: 600 mg
  • Fat: 12 g
  • Saturated Fat: 3 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 30 g
  • Fiber: 6 g
  • Protein: 22 g
  • Cholesterol: 70 mg