Description
A hearty and nourishing beef barley soup featuring tender beef stew meat, wholesome pearl barley, and fresh vegetables simmered in a rich and savory beef broth. This comforting and filling soup is perfect for cold days or whenever you want a wholesome meal.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb beef stew meat
- 1/2 cup pearl barley
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 6 cups beef broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat the oil: Warm 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat to prepare for sautéing the beef and vegetables.
- Brown the beef: Add 1 pound of beef stew meat to the pot and brown on all sides until nicely seared. This seals in flavor and adds depth to the soup.
- Sauté vegetables: Add the chopped onion, diced carrots, diced celery, and minced garlic to the pot. Cook until the vegetables soften and become fragrant, about 5 minutes.
- Add grains and liquids: Stir in 1/2 cup pearl barley, 6 cups beef broth, 1 teaspoon dried thyme, and 1 bay leaf. These ingredients build the base and texture of the soup.
- Simmer soup: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 45 to 60 minutes, or until the barley is tender and the beef is cooked through.
- Season and serve: Remove the bay leaf, season the soup with salt and black pepper to taste, and stir well. Serve the soup warm, enjoying the rich flavors.
Notes
- For extra flavor and texture, add mushrooms along with the other vegetables.
- Adjust the thickness by adding more beef broth if the soup gets too thick during cooking.
- The soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
