Hearty Beef and Barley Soup Recipe
This Hearty Beef and Barley Soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly days. Tender chunks of beef, wholesome barley, and a mix of vegetables like carrots, celery, and mushrooms come together in a flavorful broth. It’s a satisfying, nutrient-packed meal that’s both delicious and filling. Simple to make, this soup is ideal for family dinners or meal prep. Pair it with crusty bread for a cozy, complete meal.
Ingredients:
1 pound boneless chuck roast, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
1 ½ cups carrots, thinly sliced
1 ½ cups celery, thinly sliced
⅔ cup onion, chopped
10-12 mushrooms, sliced
2 tablespoons beef base (a concentrated flavoring, not broth)
8-10 cups water
1 or 2 large bay leaves
1 cup uncooked pearl barley
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon pepper
1 tablespoon garlic, minced
Instructions:
1. Prep the Ingredients:
Trim the chuck roast and cut it into 1-inch pieces.
Thinly slice the carrots and celery.
Chop the onion and slice the mushrooms.
Mince the garlic if not already prepared.
2. Brown the Beef:
Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat with a little oil.
Add the beef pieces and brown them on all sides (5-7 minutes). Remove the beef and set it aside.
3. Cook the Vegetables:
In the same pot, add the onion, carrots, and celery.
Cook for 5 minutes until softened.
Add mushrooms and garlic, cooking for another 3 minutes.
4. Combine Ingredients:
Return the browned beef to the pot.
Add beef base, water, and bay leaves.
Stir in the uncooked pearl barley.
5. Simmer the Soup:
Season with salt and pepper.
Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat to low.
Cover and simmer for 1-1.5 hours until the beef is tender and the barley is cooked.
6. Adjust and Serve:
Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Remove the bay leaves.
Serve the Beef and Barley Soup hot, paired with crusty bread for a satisfying meal.
Notes:
You can add additional vegetables like peas or corn for more flavor and texture.
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for longer. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
