Beef & Barley Soup

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Heat the olive oil over medium-high heat in a large soup pot or Dutch oven. Add the beef stew meat in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pot. Brown the beef on all sides, which will take about 5-7 minutes. Once browned, remove the beef from the pot and set it aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, add a little more olive oil if needed. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté for 4-5 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened. Add the garlic and sauté for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 3: Add the Barley & Broth

Add the rinsed pearl barley to the pot along with the browned beef. Pour in the beef broth and water, stirring to combine. Add the dried thyme, rosemary, bay leaf, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Stir everything together, ensuring the barley and beef are well distributed in the broth.

Step 4: Simmer the Soup

Bring the soup to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer, uncovered, for about 1 to 1 ½ hours, or until the beef is tender and the barley is cooked through. Stir occasionally to make sure the barley doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pot.

Step 5: Add the Peas

If you’re using frozen peas, add them to the soup about 10 minutes before serving. They’ll add a pop of color and a touch of sweetness to the dish.

Step 6: Taste and Adjust Seasoning

Before serving, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. You may want to add a little more salt, pepper, or herbs to taste.

Step 7: Serve & Garnish

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve with crusty bread or crackers on the side for an extra touch of comfort.

Tips for the Perfect Beef & Barley Soup

1. Use a good cut of beef: For the best flavor and tenderness, use beef stew meat or chuck roast. These cuts have enough fat and connective tissue to break down during simmering, making the soup rich and flavorful.
2. Barley choices: Pearl barley is most commonly used in soups, but you can substitute with hulled barley if you prefer a more nutritious option. Hulled barley has a chewier texture and requires a longer cooking time, so adjust accordingly.
3. Thicken the broth: If you like a thicker soup, you can mash a portion of the vegetables or barley to create a creamier consistency. Alternatively, use a small amount of cornstarch mixed with water to thicken the broth.
4. Make it ahead: Beef & Barley Soup is even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld. It also freezes well, so consider making a double batch to enjoy later. Just store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months.
5. Add other vegetables: Feel free to get creative with the vegetables you include. Potatoes, parsnips, or turnips all work wonderfully in this soup. Just chop them into bite-sized pieces and add them along with the carrots and celery.
6. Spice it up: If you prefer a little kick, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the broth for extra heat.

Health Benefits of Beef & Barley Soup

Not only is this Beef & Barley Soup incredibly delicious, but it’s also packed with health benefits:

• High in protein: The beef in this soup is a great source of lean protein, essential for muscle repair and overall health.
• Rich in fiber: Barley is a fantastic source of soluble fiber, which helps support digestive health and can help lower cholesterol levels.
• Vitamins & minerals: The vegetables—onion, carrots, and celery—are packed with vitamins and antioxidants that help boost your immune system.
• Low in fat: If you use lean cuts of beef and opt for low-sodium broth, this soup is a heart-healthy option that’s lower in fat than many other comfort food soups.

Final Thoughts

Beef & Barley Soup is a nourishing and hearty dish that warms the soul, making it the perfect choice for cold days or when you need a comforting, satisfying meal. It’s an easy, one-pot recipe that’s rich in flavor and nutrition, offering the perfect balance of beef, barley, and vegetables in every spoonful. Whether you’re feeding a family or preparing meals for the week, this soup is sure to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen. So grab your ingredients, get simmering, and enjoy a bowl of this classic, heartwarming dish today!