Beef Barley Soup: A Classic, Comforting Bowl of Hearty Goodness

Beef Barley Soup: A Classic, Comforting Bowl of Hearty Goodness

Nothing says comfort like a warm bowl of Beef Barley Soup. Packed with tender chunks of beef, wholesome barley, and vibrant vegetables, this soup is a satisfying meal that’s perfect for chilly days. Whether you prepare it quickly with stew meat or simmer it low and slow with a chuck roast, the result is a rich, flavorful broth that nourishes the body and soul.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hearty and Filling: With beef, barley, and vegetables, this soup is a complete meal in one bowl.
• Versatile Cooking Options: Make it quick on the stovetop or let it slowly develop its flavors in a slow cooker or Dutch oven.
• Classic Comfort Food: Perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or a comforting dish to share with loved ones.

How to Make Beef Barley Soup

Ingredients

Serves 6–8:

• For the Soup Base:
  • 1 lb stew meat or chuck roast, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 carrots, sliced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 6 cups beef broth
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 bay leaf
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
• For the Additions:
  • ½ cup pearl barley
  • 1 cup frozen or canned corn, drained
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1️⃣ Sear the Beef:

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Season the beef with salt and pepper. Add it to the pot and sear on all sides until browned. Remove the beef and set aside.

2️⃣ Sauté the Vegetables:

1. In the same pot, add diced onion, carrots, celery, and garlic.
2. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until the vegetables are softened and aromatic.

3️⃣ Build the Soup:

1. Return the beef to the pot and add beef broth, diced tomatoes, thyme, and the bay leaf.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Simmer for 45 minutes if using stew meat or 1.5–2 hours if using chuck roast, until the beef is tender.

4️⃣ Cook the Barley:

1. Add pearl barley to the pot and cook for an additional 30 minutes, or until the barley is tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

5️⃣ Add the Corn and Finish:

1. Stir in the corn and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes to heat through.
2. Remove the bay leaf and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Tips for Success

1. Use Chuck Roast for Maximum Flavor: If you have time, slow-cooking a chuck roast adds a depth of flavor that stew meat can’t beat.
2. Don’t Skip the Sear: Browning the beef before adding the broth enhances the overall flavor of the soup.
3. Make It Your Own: Add mushrooms, green beans, or potatoes to customize the soup to your taste.

Why This Recipe Stands Out

This Beef Barley Soup is a timeless classic that combines tender beef, chewy barley, and nutritious vegetables in a flavorful broth. It’s perfect for meal prep, reheats beautifully, and provides that cozy, homemade taste we all crave. Whether served with a slice of crusty bread or enjoyed on its own, it’s sure to be a hit at your table.