Description
A hearty and nourishing beef barley soup featuring tender chunks of beef, wholesome pearl barley, and fresh vegetables simmered in a rich, savory beef broth. This comforting classic is perfect for a satisfying meal on chilly days.
Ingredients
Beef and Broth
- 1 lb beef stew meat
- 6 cups beef broth
Grains
- 1/2 cup pearl barley
Vegetables
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Spices and Fats
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat Olive Oil: Warm 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat until shimmering.
- Brown Beef: Add 1 lb beef stew meat to the pot and brown on all sides to develop deep flavor and seal in juices.
- Sauté Vegetables: Stir in 1 chopped small onion, 2 diced carrots, 2 diced celery stalks, and 2 minced garlic cloves. Cook until the vegetables are softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
- Add Grains and Broth: Mix in 1/2 cup pearl barley, then pour 6 cups beef broth over the ingredients. Add 1 teaspoon dried thyme and 1 bay leaf.
- Simmer Soup: Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer gently for 45 to 60 minutes until the barley is tender and the beef is cooked through.
- Finish and Season: Remove the bay leaf, season the soup with salt and black pepper to taste, and stir well.
- Serve Warm: Ladle the soup into bowls and serve warm for a comforting meal.
Notes
- For additional depth of flavor, add sliced mushrooms along with the vegetables.
- Adjust the soup’s thickness by adding extra beef broth or water if you prefer a thinner consistency.
- This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
