Description

When the weather starts to cool down, nothing beats a warm, comforting bowl of soup. This Beef and Barley Soup is a rich and hearty meal that’s perfect for cozy evenings or meal prepping for the week ahead. Slow-cooked to perfection, the tender beef stew meat, wholesome barley, and flavorful vegetables all come together in a deliciously savory broth. With minimal effort, this soup delivers maximum flavor, making it a must-try for anyone who loves a hearty, home-cooked meal

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 pounds beef stew meat, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup pearl barley, rinsed
• 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 celery stalks, sliced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 6 cups beef broth
• 2 cups water
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Preparation Method

1. Heat olive oil in a skillet and brown beef stew meat seasoned with salt and pepper for 5 to 7 minutes.
2. Transfer browned beef to a slow cooker.
3. Sauté chopped onions and minced garlic in the same skillet for 2 to 3 minutes, then add to the slow cooker.
4. Add sliced carrots, celery, mushrooms, and a can of diced tomatoes to the slow cooker.
5. Stir in rinsed pearl barley, bay leaves, and dried thyme.
6. Pour beef broth and water into the slow cooker and stir to combine.
7. Cook on low for 7 to 8 hours or high for 4 to 5 hours.
8. Stir and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper 30 minutes before serving.
9. Remove bay leaves, ladle soup into bowls, and serve.

Tips and Conclusion

Bonus Tip:
For a little extra depth of flavor, consider deglazing the skillet after browning the beef. Simply pour a splash of red wine or beef broth into the hot skillet, scraping up any browned bits left behind from the meat. This will add even more richness to the soup. If you prefer a slightly thicker consistency, you can remove the lid during the last 30 minutes of cooking to let some of the liquid evaporate and concentrate the flavors.

You can also customize this soup by adding additional vegetables like potatoes, turnips, or parsnips for an even heartier meal. For a garnish, sprinkle fresh parsley or thyme over each bowl just before serving to brighten up the flavors.

Conclusion:
This Beef and Barley Soup is the perfect comfort food, offering warmth and nourishment with every bite. The slow-cooked beef becomes tender and flavorful, while the barley adds a satisfying chew. Paired with savory vegetables and a rich, flavorful broth, this soup is the ultimate choice for cold days or when you need a hearty, filling meal. Best of all, the slow cooker does most of the work, allowing you to enjoy a delicious homemade dinner with minimal effort.

Whether you’re making this for a cozy night in or preparing it for a crowd, this soup is guaranteed to impress. It’s a versatile, adaptable recipe that you can tailor to your taste by adding different vegetables, herbs, or even experimenting with various seasonings. With its deep flavors and comforting texture, you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe time and time again.