Description
A hearty Beef Barley Soup recipe packed with tender beef, chewy barley, and fresh vegetables in a flavorful broth.
Ingredients
Scale
Soup Base:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
Beef:
- 1 pound beef stew meat, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and pepper to taste
Broth and Grains:
- 6 cups beef broth or stock
- 1 cup pearl barley
Vegetables and Seasonings:
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into pieces
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
Instructions
- Prepare the Beef: Season the beef with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the beef and sear until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the beef and set it aside.
- Cook the Vegetables: In the same pot, add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes. This step allows the natural sweetness of the vegetables to develop, enhancing the overall flavor of the soup.
- Combine Ingredients: Return the beef to the pot. Stir in the diced tomatoes, thyme, parsley, and bay leaves. Add the beef broth and bring to a boil. The combination of herbs and tomatoes creates a beautifully balanced base that will infuse the soup with a depth of flavor.
- Add Barley: Reduce the heat to low, then stir in the barley. Cover and simmer for 45-50 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the barley and beef are tender. The barley will soak up the broth, becoming plump and chewy while thickening the soup slightly.
- Add Final Vegetables: Add the green beans and mushrooms to the pot during the last 10-15 minutes of cooking. These vegetables are delicate and don’t require long cooking times, ensuring they retain their texture and vibrant color.
- Taste and Adjust: Remove the bay leaves. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. A final taste test ensures all the flavors are perfectly balanced.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve hot. Pairing the soup with a slice of crusty bread or a side salad makes for a complete and satisfying meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 1.5 cups)
- Calories: 300-350 calories
Keywords: Beef Barley Soup,Beef barley soup recipe