Teresa's Recipes
Hearty Beef Barley Soup
This Hearty Beef Barley Soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly days. Tender pieces of beef stew meat are simmered to perfection with wholesome barley, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs, creating a deliciously rich broth. Each spoonful is a warm embrace, filled with the flavors of thyme and bay leaf, making it not just a meal, but a cozy experience. Originating from ancient cultures as a way to use up leftovers and feed families, this classic dish has stood the test of time and continues to bring warmth to our hearts and homes.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil
- 1.5 pounds, cut into 1-inch cubes Beef stew meat
- 1 teaspoon, to taste Salt
- 1/2 teaspoon, to taste Black pepper
- 1 teaspoon, dried or 1 tablespoon fresh Thyme
- 1 leaf Bay leaf
- 6 cups Beef broth
- 3 cloves, minced Garlic
- 2 stalks, chopped Celery
- 2, sliced Carrots
- 1 medium, chopped Onion
- 1 cup, pearl barley preferred Barley
Dietary Notes
- Servings: 6
- Dish Type: Soup
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 15g
- Carbs: 30g
- Protein: 25g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Sugar: 3g
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the beef stew meat and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the chopped onion, sliced carrots, sliced celery, and minced garlic. Cook for 5 minutes, until the vegetables are slightly softened.
- Add the pearl barley, beef broth, bay leaf, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender and the barley is cooked.
- Remove the bay leaf and adjust the seasoning if needed. If desired, garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
- Serve hot and enjoy your deliciously hearty beef barley soup!
Tips
- For an extra depth of flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine after browning the meat.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like peas or potatoes for variety.
- This soup freezes well, so make a big batch and store leftovers for a future meal.