Description
“Hearty Beef Barley Soup is a comforting, one-pot meal made with tender beef, wholesome barley, and vegetables in a rich, savory broth. Perfect for chilly days and meal prep!”
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 ½ lbs beef stew meat, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups beef broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- ¾ cup pearl barley
- 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp tomato paste (optional, for extra depth)
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (optional)
- ½ cup frozen peas (optional, added at the end)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Brown the Beef – Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Sear beef until browned on all sides (about 5 minutes). Remove and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables – In the same pot, sauté onion, carrots, and celery for 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
- Build the Broth – Return beef to the pot. Add beef broth, diced tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, tomato paste (if using), thyme, oregano, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil.
- Simmer the Soup – Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add Barley and Mushrooms – Stir in barley and mushrooms (if using). Simmer uncovered for another 30-40 minutes until barley and beef are tender.
- Final Touches – Season with salt and pepper to taste. Add peas in the last 5 minutes.
- Serve and Enjoy – Remove bay leaf, garnish with parsley, and serve hot with crusty bread.
Notes
- Vegetable Boost – Add potatoes, bell peppers, or green beans.
- Gluten-Free – Replace barley with quinoa or brown rice.
- Slow Cooker – Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours. Add peas before serving.
- Instant Pot – Pressure cook on high for 25 minutes, then add barley and cook on sauté mode until tender.
- Lighter Version – Use lean beef and reduce oil.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Category: soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Beef barley soup, hearty soup, comfort food, one-pot meal, meal prep