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Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the beef stew meat and season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Brown the beef on all sides, about 5–7 minutes. This step adds great depth of flavor to the soup, so don’t rush it! Once browned, remove the beef from the pot and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pot, add a little more olive oil if needed. Toss in the onions, carrots, and celery, and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften. Add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, just until fragrant.
3. Add the Barley and Broth
Now it’s time to bring everything together. Stir in the barley, making sure it’s well-coated with the oil and vegetables. Pour in the beef broth and water, stirring to combine. Add the dried thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf to the pot.
4. Simmer the Soup
Return the browned beef to the pot and stir everything together. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let the soup simmer for about 1 hour, or until the beef is tender and the barley has softened. Stir occasionally to prevent anything from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
5. Season to Taste
After an hour of simmering, remove the bay leaf and taste the soup. Add salt and pepper as needed to balance the flavors. If you like your soup a bit more flavorful, feel free to adjust the seasonings.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley, if desired. Serve with warm, crusty bread on the side for dipping, and you’ve got yourself a meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love Beef & Barley Soup
Comfort in a bowl: Beef & Barley Soup is like a hug in soup form. The combination of tender beef, chewy barley, and flavorful broth creates a rich, comforting dish that makes you feel at home, no matter where you are.
Nutritious & Filling: This soup is packed with protein from the beef, fiber from the barley, and plenty of vitamins and minerals from the vegetables. It’s a wholesome, well-rounded meal that will keep you satisfied for hours.
Great for Meal Prep: Beef & Barley Soup is even better the next day, as the flavors continue to meld together. Make a big batch and store it in the fridge for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week. It also freezes well, so you can keep it on hand for a rainy day.
Versatile & Customizable: While the recipe here is a classic, feel free to get creative! Add in your favorite vegetables like potatoes or parsnips, or even throw in a few extra herbs for a personalized twist. This soup is flexible and can easily adapt to your tastes.
A Soup for All Seasons
Although Beef & Barley Soup is a wintertime favorite, it’s the kind of recipe that can be enjoyed year-round. The heartiness of the beef and barley provides a satisfying meal no matter the season, and the fragrant herbs bring a warmth to the dish that can brighten up even the gloomiest of days.
Next time you’re craving something hearty and satisfying, give this Beef & Barley Soup a try. With its rich flavors, filling ingredients, and comforting qualities, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again. Plus, it’s guaranteed to become a staple in your recipe rotation for years to come!
Final Thoughts
This Beef & Barley Soup is more than just a meal – it’s a tradition. Whether you’re feeding your family, hosting friends, or just looking for a cozy meal to enjoy on your own, this dish will always hit the spot. So, put on your apron, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy the ultimate comfort food in a bowl.
