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Beef and Barley Soup Recipe
Welcome to this hearty Beef and Barley Soup recipe, a comforting dish perfect for chilly days. This recipe requires a prep time of 20 minutes, a cook time of 2 hours, and a total time of 2 hours 20 minutes. It serves 6 people and is of moderate difficulty.
Originating from my grandmother’s kitchen, this recipe has been passed down through generations, bringing warmth and nourishment to our family gatherings.
This Beef and Barley Soup combines tender beef, wholesome barley, and flavorful vegetables in a savory broth that will fill your home with delightful aromas.
Let’s dive into the ingredients and steps to create this soul-soothing soup.
Ingredients
For this Beef and Barley Soup, you will need the following ingredients:
– 1 pound stewing beef, cubed
– 1 cup pearl barley
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 carrots, sliced
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 6 cups beef broth
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
If needed, you can substitute the stewing beef with ground beef or even mushrooms for a vegetarian option.
Step-by-step Instructions
1. In a large pot, brown the stewing beef over medium-high heat until seared on all sides.
2. Add the diced onions, sliced carrots, chopped celery, and minced garlic to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
3. Pour in the beef broth and water, then add the pearl barley, tomato paste, dried thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 2 hours until the beef is tender and the barley is cooked through.
5. Adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
6. Serve the Beef and Barley Soup hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Enjoy this nourishing soup with crusty bread or a side salad.
Recipe Variations
1. **Vegetarian Option**: Replace the beef with portobello mushrooms for a rich and earthy flavor.
2. **Spicy Twist**: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for a kick of heat.
3. **Creamy Variation**: Stir in a splash of heavy cream before serving for a luxurious touch.
Expert Tips & Tricks
1. **Choosing Beef**: Opt for marbled cuts like chuck or brisket for the most flavorful soup.
2. **Barley Prep**: Rinse the barley before using it to remove any excess starch for a cleaner broth.
3. **Enhancing Flavor**: Sauté the vegetables until caramelized for a deeper taste profile.
4. **Simmer Slowly**: Let the soup simmer low and slow for tender beef and fully cooked barley.
5. **Seasoning**: Taste the soup as it cooks and adjust the seasoning gradually for balanced flavors.
Storage & Make-ahead Instructions
You can store leftover Beef and Barley Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, portion the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers and store for up to 3 months.
When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to maintain the soup’s consistency.
Nutritional Information/Benefits
This Beef and Barley Soup is a nutritious meal packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins. Barley is known for its heart-healthy benefits, while beef provides iron and protein.
Each serving of this soup contains approximately 300 calories, making it a satisfying and wholesome choice for a meal.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
Pair this comforting Beef and Barley Soup with a side of crusty bread, dinner rolls, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
For added richness, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top or drizzle with a swirl of olive oil before serving.
FAQs
1. **Can I use quick-cooking barley instead of pearl barley?**
Quick-cooking barley can be used, but adjust the cooking time accordingly as it cooks faster than pearl barley.
2. **Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?**
Yes, you can prepare this soup in a slow cooker by following the same steps and cooking on low for 6-8 hours.
3. **Is it necessary to brown the beef before adding it to the soup?**
Browning the beef adds depth of flavor to the soup, but you can skip this step if you’re short on time.
4. **How can I make this soup gluten-free?**
Use gluten-free barley or substitute with quinoa for a gluten-free alternative.
5. **Can I add other vegetables to this soup?**
Feel free to customize the soup with additional vegetables like peas, corn, or bell peppers.
6. **Can I make a larger batch of this soup for freezing?**
Absolutely! Simply double or triple the ingredients to make a big batch for freezing.
Conclusion
Warm your soul with a bowl of homemade Beef and Barley Soup, a classic recipe that brings comfort and nourishment to your table. Whether enjoyed on a cozy evening or shared with loved ones, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Don’t forget to save this recipe for later on Pinterest and share your cooking creations with us. We hope this Beef and Barley Soup recipe becomes a staple in your home, bringing joy with every spoonful.
Beef and Barley Soup Recipe
A comforting and hearty Beef and Barley Soup filled with tender beef, wholesome barley, and flavorful vegetables in a savory broth. Perfect for chilly days and family gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 pound stewing beef, cubed
- 1 cup pearl barley
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups beef broth
- 2 cups water
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- In a large pot, brown the stewing beef over medium-high heat until seared on all sides.
- Add the diced onions, sliced carrots, chopped celery, and minced garlic to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
- Pour in the beef broth and water, then add the pearl barley, tomato paste, dried thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 2 hours until the beef is tender and the barley is cooked through.
- Adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve the Beef and Barley Soup hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
