Beef and barley soup is a hearty, nutritious dish made with tender chunks of beef, chewy barley, and a variety of vegetables. This soup is perfect for a cozy dinner and offers a satisfying, wholesome meal.
Ingredients:
For the Soup:
✅ 1 lb (450g) beef stew meat (cut into bite-sized cubes)
✅ 2 tablespoons olive oil
✅ 1 medium onion (chopped)
✅ 2 cloves garlic (minced)
✅ 2 carrots (peeled and chopped)
✅ 2 celery stalks (chopped)
✅ 1 cup pearl barley (rinsed)
✅ 1 can (400g) diced tomatoes
✅ 6 cups beef broth (or water with beef bouillon)
✅ 1 teaspoon dried thyme
✅ 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
✅ 1 bay leaf
✅ ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
✅ ½ teaspoon black pepper
✅ 1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional, for added depth)
✅ 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Brown the Beef
1️⃣ Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2️⃣ Add the beef stew meat and cook, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides. Remove the beef from the pot and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
3️⃣ In the same pot, add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
Step 3: Build the Soup Base
4️⃣ Return the browned beef to the pot. Add the diced tomatoes, beef broth, barley, thyme, rosemary, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5️⃣ Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer, covered, for 1.5 to 2 hours. Stir occasionally to prevent the barley from sticking.
Step 4: Add the Finishing Touches
6️⃣ After the soup has simmered and the beef is tender, remove the bay leaf.
7️⃣ Stir in the soy sauce (if using) and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!
🌿 Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve warm with a slice of crusty bread or a side salad. This filling, comforting soup is sure to satisfy! 🍲🥄