Beef & Barley Soup Recipe

Beef & Barley Soup is a hearty and comforting dish that’s perfect for chilly days. With tender cubes of beef, a medley of vegetables, and the satisfying texture of pearl barley, this soup is a complete meal in a bowl. It’s easy to make and offers a rich, savory flavor that will warm you up from the inside out.

Ingredients

• 1 lb beef stew meat, cubed
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 cup pearl barley
• 6 cups beef broth
• 1 tsp thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. In a large pot, brown the beef stew meat over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion, sliced carrots, and chopped celery to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in the pearl barley, beef broth, thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 1 hour, until the beef is tender and the barley is cooked.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Variations

• Add greens: Stir in some spinach, kale, or Swiss chard for extra nutrients and color.
• Use other grains: You can substitute pearl barley with other grains like quinoa or farro for a different texture.
• Spicy version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced chili pepper for some heat.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a pot over medium heat until warmed through, adding more broth if necessary to reach your desired consistency.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use a different cut of beef?
   Yes, you can use chuck roast or any other beef suitable for stewing. Just make sure to cut it into bite-sized cubes.
2. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
   Yes, you can brown the beef and vegetables first, then transfer them to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. Can I freeze Beef & Barley Soup?
   Yes, you can freeze this soup. Let it cool completely, then store in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stove when ready to serve.
4. Can I make it without barley?
   Yes, you can omit the barley or substitute it with another grain like rice or farro.
5. Is this soup gluten-free?
   No, because of the barley. However, you can replace the barley with quinoa or rice to make a gluten-free version.
6. Can I add more vegetables?
   Yes, you can add potatoes, parsnips, or green beans for added variety and texture.
7. What can I use instead of beef broth?
   You can substitute beef broth with vegetable broth or chicken broth, depending on your preference.
8. Can I cook this soup faster?
   Using a pressure cooker or Instant Pot can reduce cooking time. You would cook the soup on high pressure for about 30 minutes.
9. How can I thicken the soup?
   If you prefer a thicker soup, you can mash some of the barley or vegetables after cooking, or add a slurry of cornstarch and water.
10. Can I make this soup in advance?
    Yes, this soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. It’s perfect for meal prep!

Conclusion

Beef & Barley Soup is a simple, nourishing dish that offers comfort and warmth with every bite. With tender beef, wholesome vegetables, and hearty barley, it’s a satisfying meal that can be made ahead or enjoyed right away. This classic soup is perfect for feeding a crowd or keeping your family warm on cold days.

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