Beef and Barley Soup (Printer View)

A warming bowl filled with tender beef, nutty pearl barley, and garden vegetables simmered slowly in rich beef broth.

# Components:

→ Meats

01 - 1 lb beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes

→ Grains

02 - 3/4 cup pearl barley, rinsed

→ Vegetables

03 - 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
04 - 2 celery stalks, diced
05 - 1 large onion, chopped
06 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
07 - 1 cup potatoes, peeled and diced
08 - 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
09 - 1 cup frozen peas
10 - 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, drained (optional)

→ Liquids

11 - 8 cups beef broth

→ Herbs & Seasonings

12 - 2 bay leaves
13 - 1 tsp dried thyme
14 - 1 tsp dried parsley
15 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
16 - 2 tbsp olive oil

# Method:

01 - Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add beef cubes and brown on all sides for approximately 5 minutes. Transfer beef to a plate and set aside.
02 - In the same pot, add onions, carrots, celery, and mushrooms. Cook for 5 minutes until vegetables begin to soften.
03 - Add minced garlic and stir continuously for 1 minute until fragrant.
04 - Return the browned beef to the pot. Stir in potatoes, pearl barley, diced tomatoes if using, beef broth, bay leaves, thyme, and parsley.
05 - Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
06 - Add peas and season with salt and pepper. Simmer uncovered for 20 to 30 minutes until barley and beef are tender.
07 - Remove bay leaves and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve immediately while hot.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Hearty and Nutritious: Packed with protein, fiber-rich grains, and a variety of vegetables.
  • Comforting Flavors: The slow-simmered beef broth and herbs create a deep, savory profile.
  • Simple Preparation: Uses standard kitchen tools and straightforward techniques for a medium-difficulty result.
02 -
  • Rinse the Barley: Rinsing the barley before cooking removes excess starch and ensures a clearer broth.
  • Browning is Key: Don't rush browning the beef; those caramelized bits at the bottom of the pot add immense flavor.
  • Broth Quality: If using store-bought beef broth, check labels for gluten or soy if you have specific dietary sensitivities.
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