Beef and Barley Soup

Hearty Beef and Barley Soup: A Comforting Classic for Any Season

When it comes to wholesome comfort food, few dishes compare to a steaming bowl of Beef and Barley Soup. This hearty, nourishing recipe combines tender chunks of beef, nutty barley, and flavorful vegetables simmered together to create a meal that’s both satisfying and healthy.

Perfect for chilly evenings or as a make-ahead lunch, this soup brings warmth and nutrition to the table — a timeless classic that never goes out of style.

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🍲 Why You’ll Love This Soup

• Hearty & filling: Packed with lean protein and fiber-rich barley, this soup keeps you full for hours.

• Nutritious: Loaded with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants from fresh vegetables.

• Budget-friendly: Uses affordable ingredients and stretches easily for meal prep.

• Freezer-friendly: Make a big batch — it freezes beautifully for future quick meals.

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🥩 Ingredients

• 1 lb (450 g) beef stew meat, cut into bite-size pieces

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 large onion, diced

• 2 carrots, chopped

• 2 celery stalks, chopped

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 6 cups beef broth (low-sodium preferred)

• 1 cup pearl barley, rinsed

• 1 can (14 oz / 400 g) diced tomatoes (optional for extra flavor)

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme

• 1 bay leaf

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• Fresh parsley, for garnish

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👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Brown the beef:
   In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef and cook until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.

2. Sauté the aromatics:
   In the same pot, add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5–6 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for another minute.

3. Simmer the soup:
   Return the beef to the pot. Add beef broth, barley, diced tomatoes (if using), thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Stir well and bring to a boil.

4. Cook until tender:
   Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1 to 1½ hours, or until the beef and barley are tender. Stir occasionally and add more broth or water if the soup becomes too thick.

5. Finish and serve:
   Remove the bay leaf, adjust seasoning, and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

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🥣 Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a slice of crusty bread or buttery biscuits for the perfect cozy meal.

• Pair with a crisp green salad for a lighter touch.

• Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top for extra flavor and richness.

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🧊 Storage Tips

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

• Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a little broth or water to loosen the texture.

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💚 Health Benefits

• Beef provides high-quality protein and essential minerals like iron and zinc.

• Barley is rich in fiber, supporting digestion and heart health.

• Vegetables add antioxidants and vitamins for an immune-boosting meal.

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🌿 Final Thoughts

This Beef and Barley Soup is a timeless recipe that warms both body and soul. Whether you’re cooking for family, meal prepping for the week, or simply craving something hearty and homemade, this comforting dish delivers every time.

Serve it once, and it’s sure to become a regular in your kitchen rotation.