Hearty Beef and Barley Soup: A Comforting Recipe for Cozy Nights
Are you looking for a delicious and satisfying soup recipe that's perfect for a chilly evening? Look no further! This hearty beef and barley soup is packed with flavor and nutrients, making it a perfect meal for the whole family. It's also surprisingly easy to make, even for beginner cooks. Let's dive into this comforting classic!
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe yields approximately 6-8 servings. Feel free to adjust the quantities based on your needs.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: A healthy fat for sautéing the vegetables.
- 1 large onion, chopped: Provides sweetness and depth of flavor.
- 2 carrots, chopped: Adds a touch of sweetness and vibrant color.
- 2 celery stalks, chopped: Enhances the savory notes.
- 1 lb beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes: The star of the show! Choose a cut that's known for its tenderness when slow-cooked.
- 1 cup barley: Adds heartiness and a delightful chewy texture. Pearled barley cooks faster than other varieties.
- 8 cups beef broth: Provides the base for the rich and flavorful soup. Low-sodium broth is recommended to control the salt content.
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained: Adds acidity and a burst of fresh tomato flavor.
- 1 tsp dried thyme: A classic herb that complements beef and barley beautifully.
- 1 tsp dried rosemary: Adds a fragrant and earthy note.
- 1 bay leaf: Provides a subtle, savory depth of flavor.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Season to your liking.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
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Sauté the Vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
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Brown the Beef: Add the beef cubes to the pot and cook until browned on all sides. This step helps to develop a deeper, richer flavor.
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Add Remaining Ingredients: Stir in the barley, beef broth, diced tomatoes, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 1.5 - 2 hours, or until the beef is very tender and the barley is cooked through.
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Season and Serve: Remove the bay leaf before serving. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips and Variations:
- For a thicker soup: Mash some of the cooked barley against the side of the pot before serving.
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like potatoes, mushrooms, or green beans.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Make it a slow cooker recipe: Brown the beef as directed, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
- Freeze for later: This soup freezes beautifully! Let it cool completely before storing it in airtight containers in the freezer.
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This recipe post incorporates several SEO best practices:
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Enjoy your delicious and SEO-friendly beef and barley soup! Remember to share your culinary creations on social media and tag us!
