Hearty Beef Barley Soup

Ingredients

• Olive oil (2 tablespoons)
• Beef stew meat (1.5 pounds, cut into 1-inch cubes)
• Salt (1 teaspoon, to taste)
• Black pepper (1/2 teaspoon, to taste)
• Thyme (1 teaspoon, dried or 1 tablespoon fresh)
• Bay leaf (1 leaf)
• Beef broth (6 cups)
• Garlic (3 cloves, minced)
• Celery (2 stalks, chopped)
• Carrots (2, sliced)
• Onion (1 medium, chopped)
• Barley (1 cup, pearl barley preferred)

Instructions

1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the beef stew meat and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Stir in the chopped onion, sliced carrots, sliced celery, and minced garlic. Cook for 5 minutes, until the vegetables are slightly softened.
4. Add the pearl barley, beef broth, bay leaf, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. 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.
6. Remove the bay leaf and adjust the seasoning if needed. If desired, garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
7. Serve hot and enjoy your deliciously hearty beef barley soup!