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Hearty Beef Barley Soup

Hearty Beef Barley Soup
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Hearty Beef Barley Soup is a warm, comforting, and nourishing meal featuring tender beef, chewy pearl barley, and an array of fresh vegetables simmered with classic herbs. This rich and wholesome soup offers a perfect balance of protein, fiber, and savory flavors, ideal for cold days or any time you crave a satisfying homemade dish.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1.5 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into tender cubes
  • 1 cup pearl barley
  • 3 medium carrots, chopped
  • 2 stalks celery, chopped
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 6 cups beef broth
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 tsp fresh thyme (or ½ tsp dried thyme)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tbsp cooking oil (for browning beef)

Optional Variations

  • Swap beef with 1.5 lbs turkey or chicken, cut into cubes
  • ½ cup sliced mushrooms for added earthiness
  • 1 cup chopped root vegetables (parsnips or turnips)
  • ¼ tsp chili flakes or cayenne for spiciness
  • Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a vegetarian option

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Brown the Beef – Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes and sear them on all sides until nicely browned. This step locks in flavor and creates a rich base for the soup.
  2. Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics – Remove the browned beef and set aside. In the same pot, add chopped onions, garlic, celery, and carrots. Cook until softened and fragrant, scraping up any browned bits from the beef to incorporate the flavor into the vegetables.
  3. Step 3: Combine Ingredients and Add Broth – Return the beef to the pot. Add pearl barley, beef broth, bay leaves, and thyme. Stir well to combine all ingredients into a harmonious blend of tastes.
  4. Step 4: Simmer Gently – Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer gently for 1.5 to 2 hours until the beef is tender and the barley has a chewy, satisfying texture.
  5. Step 5: Season and Serve – Remove the bay leaves. Taste and season the soup with salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed. Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy warm, optionally garnished with fresh parsley, grated Parmesan, or a drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil.

Notes

  • Brown the Beef Well: Taking time to brown the beef develops deeper, richer flavors.
  • Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh thyme enhances the soup’s aroma more than dried.
  • Don’t Rush the Simmer: Low and slow cooking ensures tender beef and plumped barley.
  • Adjust Barley Amount: Increase barley for a thicker soup, but maintain enough broth for balance.
  • Check Seasoning Last: Broth and beef add saltiness, so season at the end to avoid over-salting.

Nutrition

Keywords: beef barley soup, hearty soup, comfort food, slow-cooked beef, nutritious soup

Find it online: https://recipesemilly.com/hearty-beef-barley-soup/