Beef Barley Soup is a wonderful dish that warms you up from the inside out. It’s hearty, delicious, and perfect for a family dinner. This soup is loaded with tender beef, flavorful vegetables, and wholesome barley, making it a nourishing choice. Whether it’s a chilly day or you just need a comfort meal, this soup fits the bill.
Why Make This Recipe
You should make Beef Barley Soup because it’s an easy recipe that packs a punch of flavor! It is filling enough to satisfy even the heartiest appetites, and it’s an excellent way to enjoy a complete meal in one bowl. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover veggies or beef you might have on hand.
How to Make Beef Barley Soup
Making Beef Barley Soup is simple and straightforward. Here’s everything you need to know to whip up this delightful dish.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb beef stew meat, cubed
- 1 cup barley
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 cups water
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Directions:
- In a large pot, brown the cubed beef over medium heat until all sides are browned.
- Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the pot and cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the barley, beef broth, water, thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 1 hour, or until the beef is tender and the barley is cooked.
- Remove the bay leaf, adjust seasoning if needed, and serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley.
How to Serve Beef Barley Soup
Serve your Beef Barley Soup hot in bowls. You can add a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top for a nice touch. It goes well with some crusty bread on the side or a simple side salad for a complete meal.
How to Store Beef Barley Soup
You can store leftovers of Beef Barley Soup in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay good for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to cool it down first before freezing.
Tips to Make Beef Barley Soup
- Make sure not to rush the browning of the beef. This step builds a lot of flavor.
- Use any vegetables you have on hand to add extra taste and nutrition.
- If you want a thicker soup, you can add more barley or simmer it a little longer.
Variation
You can switch up the beef with chicken or turkey for a different flavor. You can also add peas or corn for extra color and taste.
FAQs
1. Can I use quick-cooking barley?
Yes, quick-cooking barley will work. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.
2. Is this soup freezable?
Absolutely! Just let it cool before transferring it to an airtight container for the freezer.
3. How long can I keep leftover soup?
Leftover Beef Barley Soup can be stored in the fridge for 3-4 days and in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Enjoy making and sharing this delicious Beef Barley Soup with your family!