Hearty Beef and Barley Soup
This classic beef and barley soup is packed with tender chunks of beef, wholesome barley, and a medley of root vegetables. Slow-simmered in a rich, savory broth, it's a deeply satisfying meal that evokes a sense of home and comfort. Ideal for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week.
Equipment
Ingredients
Instructions
- 1Pat the beef cubes dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Brown the beef in batches until seared on all sides, then remove and set aside.
- 2Reduce heat to medium, add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and tomato paste, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
- 3Return the browned beef to the pot. Stir in the beef broth, rinsed pearl barley, diced tomatoes, dried thyme, and bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1 hour.
- 4After 1 hour, add the diced potato to the soup. Continue to simmer, covered, for another 30-45 minutes, or until the beef is very tender and the barley and potatoes are cooked through.
- 5Remove the bay leaf. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley before serving hot.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, after browning the beef and sautéing the aromatics, transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, adding the potatoes during the last hour of cooking.
How can I thicken the soup if it's too thin?
You can remove about 1/2 cup of the cooked barley and vegetables, mash them, and stir them back into the soup. Alternatively, mix 1 tablespoon of flour or cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry, then stir it into the simmering soup and cook for a few minutes until thickened.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Absolutely! This soup freezes beautifully. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to airtight containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop.
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RECIPE BY
Leckere Rezepte
We are a team of passionate cooks and food enthusiasts.
