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How to Make Beef Barley Soup
Step 1: Brown the Beef
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the beef stew meat and season it with a pinch of salt and pepper. Brown the beef on all sides for about 5–7 minutes. This step enhances the flavor of the beef and adds depth to the broth.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Once the beef is browned, remove it from the pot and set it aside. In the same pot, add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté the vegetables for about 5 minutes, or until they begin to soften. Add the garlic and cook for another 1–2 minutes, until fragrant.
Step 3: Add the Broth and Seasonings
Return the browned beef to the pot with the vegetables. Add the beef broth, tomato paste (if using), dried thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf. Stir to combine, making sure the tomato paste is dissolved. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low to let it simmer gently.
Step 4: Simmer and Add the Barley
Cover the pot and simmer the soup for 1 1/2 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the beef is tender and the flavors have melded together. Add the pearl barley and continue to simmer for another 30–40 minutes, or until the barley is tender and fully cooked. Stir occasionally and check the soup’s consistency—if it becomes too thick, add more beef broth or water to reach your desired texture.
Step 5: Season and Serve
Once the barley is cooked, remove the soup from heat and discard the bay leaf. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. If you’re using frozen peas, stir them in at this point and let them warm through.
Serve the Beef Barley Soup hot, garnished with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese, if desired. Enjoy it with a slice of crusty bread for the perfect comforting meal.
Tips for the Best Beef Barley Soup
- Use bone-in beef: If you have the time, use bone-in beef stew meat or a beef shank. The bones will add extra flavor and richness to the broth as they simmer.
- Vegetable variety: Feel free to add other vegetables to the soup, such as parsnips, potatoes, or green beans, for extra texture and nutrition.
- Let it rest: Like many soups, Beef Barley Soup tastes even better the next day. Let it rest in the fridge for a few hours or overnight for the flavors to meld together.
- Use homemade broth: For an extra layer of flavor, use homemade beef broth. If you don’t have any on hand, a good-quality store-bought broth will work just fine.
Serving Suggestions for Beef Barley Soup
Beef Barley Soup is hearty enough to be served on its own, but it pairs well with a variety of sides to complete the meal:
- Crusty Bread: A slice of warm, crusty bread or a soft dinner roll is perfect for dipping into the soup.
- Green Salad: A light green salad with a tangy vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich soup.
- Cheese: Grated Parmesan or sharp cheddar cheese adds a touch of richness when sprinkled on top of each bowl.
Why You’ll Love Beef Barley Soup
This Beef Barley Soup is more than just a comforting meal—it’s a bowl of warmth, packed with flavor, and filled with nourishing ingredients. Whether you make it for a cold winter day or simply crave a hearty dish, this soup is sure to become a family favorite. Easy to prepare, nutritious, and oh-so-satisfying, Beef Barley Soup is a true classic that brings joy to every meal.
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