Introduction
Warm yourself up with a bowl of Hearty Beef and Barley Soup, a classic comfort food that combines tender beef, nutritious barley, and a medley of vegetables. This recipe is perfect for chilly evenings, providing nourishment and satisfaction with every spoonful.
Ingredients
1 lb (450g) beef stew meat, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 cup (200g) pearl barley, rinsed
1 large onion, diced
3 carrots, sliced
2 celery stalks, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
6 cups (1.5L) beef broth
1 cup (240ml) water
1 can (14 oz/400g) diced tomatoes, undrained
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
1 bay leaf
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
45 minutes to 1 hour
Total Time
1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield
Serves 6-8
Enjoy your hearty and comforting Beef and Barley Soup!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Sear the Beef:
– Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
– Add the beef, season with salt and pepper, and sear until browned on all sides.
– Remove the beef and set aside.
Sauté the Vegetables:
– In the same pot, add the onion, carrots, celery, and garlic.
– Sauté for 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
Add Broth and Tomatoes:
– Return the beef to the pot.
– Pour in the beef broth, water, and diced tomatoes.
– Stir in the thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf.
– Bring to a boil.
Cook the Barley:
– Reduce the heat to low and add the rinsed barley.
– Cover and simmer for 45 minutes to 1 hour, stirring occasionally, until the beef is tender and the barley is cooked.
Adjust Seasonings:
– Taste the soup and adjust seasonings with more salt and pepper if needed.
– Remove the bay leaf before serving.
Notes
Storage:
– Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
Serving Suggestions:
– Serve with crusty bread or a green salad for a complete meal.
Variations:
– Feel free to add other vegetables such as peas or green beans for added nutrition and color.
Cooking Method:
– This soup can also be made in a slow cooker. Brown the beef and sauté the vegetables before adding all ingredients to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours.
Beef Choices:
– You can use different cuts of beef, but ensure they are suitable for stewing. Chuck roast is a great choice.
Cook Techniques
Searing the Beef
Searing is the process of cooking the surface of the meat at high temperature until a browned crust forms. This enhances the flavor and texture of the beef.
Sautéing Vegetables
Sautéing involves cooking vegetables quickly in a small amount of fat over relatively high heat. This technique helps to soften the vegetables and release their natural flavors.
Simmering
Simmering is cooking food gently in liquid at a temperature just below boiling. This allows flavors to meld and results in tender meat and cooked grains.
Adjusting Seasonings
Always taste the dish and adjust seasonings, such as salt and pepper, at the end of cooking for a balanced flavor profile.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, you can substitute beef with other meats such as chicken or turkey, but cooking times may vary.
Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like peas, green beans, or potatoes based on your preference.
How long can I store the soup?
The soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or frozen for longer storage.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Sear the beef and sauté the vegetables as directed, then combine everything in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
No, barley contains gluten. For a gluten-free option, consider using quinoa or a gluten-free grain.
Conclusion
Hearty Beef and Barley Soup is a warming and satisfying dish that combines tender beef, nutritious vegetables, and wholesome barley, perfect for any occasion. It’s not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it a great choice for a comforting meal.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Vegetable Barley Soup
A lighter alternative, this soup swaps beef for a variety of seasonal vegetables like zucchini, spinach, and bell peppers, keeping the pearl barley for texture.
Chicken and Wild Rice Soup
Using tender chicken instead of beef and incorporating wild rice adds a unique flavor while maintaining the hearty essence of a soup.
Lentil and Sausage Soup
Replace the beef with spicy sausage and add green or brown lentils for a robust flavor and excellent protein source.
Mushroom Barley Soup
For a vegetarian option, substitute beef with a mix of mushrooms and vegetable broth, adding extra herbs like dill for an earthy flavor.
Beef and Quinoa Soup
Swap out pearl barley for quinoa to give the soup a protein boost while keeping it hearty and filling. Add in beans for extra fiber.
