Description
Hearty Beef and Barley Soup is a comforting and filling classic American soup featuring tender beef stew meat, chewy pearl barley, and a medley of wholesome vegetables simmered in a rich, flavorful beef broth. Perfect for cold weather and family meals, this soup combines savory herbs and hearty ingredients for a satisfying dining experience.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 1/2 pounds beef stew meat, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (optional)
- 1/2 cup pearl barley
- 8 cups beef broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 bay leaf
Instructions
- Brown the Beef: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the beef stew meat and brown on all sides to develop rich flavor and color.
- Sauté the Onion: Add the diced onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 3 minutes, allowing the flavors to build.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant, taking care not to burn it.
- Add Vegetables and Ingredients: Stir in sliced carrots, celery, optional mushrooms, pearl barley, beef broth, diced tomatoes, salt, black pepper, dried thyme, dried rosemary, and the bay leaf. Mix well to combine all flavors.
- Simmer the Soup: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 60 to 75 minutes, or until the beef and barley are tender and the soup is flavorful.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the bay leaf before serving. Taste the soup and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot for a comforting meal.
Notes
- Pearl barley absorbs liquid as it cooks; add more beef broth or water if the soup becomes too thick during simmering.
- This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld.
- Freezes well for up to 3 months; reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 75 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
