Beef and Barley Soup

Warm up your soul with this hearty Beef and Barley Soup recipe! Made with tender beef, wholesome barley, and savory herbs, this soup is perfect for chilly days. Give it a try and cozy up with a bowl of this comforting dish.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb beef stew meat, cubed
• 1 cup barley
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, sliced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 cups beef broth
• 1 can diced tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

• In a large pot, brown the beef stew meat until seared on all sides.
• Add the onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. Cook until vegetables are soft.
• Pour in the beef broth and diced tomatoes. Bring to a boil.
• Stir in the barley and thyme. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 1-2 hours until beef is tender.
• Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.

Popular questions:

• Can I use instant barley instead of regular barley?

Yes, you can substitute instant barley in this recipe, but adjust the cooking time accordingly as instant barley cooks faster.

• Can I use chicken broth instead of beef broth?

Yes, you can use chicken broth as a substitute for beef broth, although the flavor may vary slightly.

• Can I add other vegetables to this soup?

Feel free to add additional vegetables like potatoes, peas, or bell peppers to customize the soup to your liking.

• Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can transfer the ingredients to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.

Helpful tips:

• For added flavor, brown the beef in batches to ensure proper searing.
• Adjust the seasoning to suit your taste preferences, adding more herbs or spices if desired.
• Serve the soup with a side of crusty bread or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for a delicious twist.

Expert Secrets:

• For a richer flavor, use bone-in beef stew meat for added depth in the broth.
• Allow the soup to sit overnight for the flavors to meld together before reheating and serving.
• Replace some of the beef broth with red wine for a sophisticated touch to the soup.