Beef Barley Soup

A cozy, hearty Beef Barley Soup that warms the soul, perfect for chilly days and easy to make with tender beef and flavorful barley.

Print Recipe

Prep Time 30

Cook Time 1 30

Total Time 2

Course Main Course, Soup

Cuisine American

Servings 6 servings

Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients

For the Soup

2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch chunks Cuts that tenderize well for soup.
1 tablespoon oil for searing Use a neutral oil to avoid strong flavors.
1 large onion, chopped Adds sweetness and depth.
2 carrots chopped For sweetness and color.
2 stalks celery, chopped For additional flavor.
3 cloves garlic, minced Enhances flavor.
1 tablespoon tomato paste Adds richness to the broth.
8 cups beef broth Low sodium if possible.
3/4 cup pearled barley, rinsed The main grain in the soup.
2 leaves bay leaves For aroma.
1 teaspoon dried thyme Or a few sprigs of fresh thyme.
1-2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce For depth of flavor.
Salt and black pepper to taste To season.
Parsley or chives for garnish Fresh herbs to finish.

Instructions

Preparation

Pat the beef dry with paper towels and season with salt at least 20 to 30 minutes before cooking.
Heat a heavy pot until hot, then add a thin layer of oil for browning the beef.
Brown the beef in batches until crusty on the edges, then set aside.
Sauté chopped onions, carrots, and celery with a pinch of salt until soft and lightly sweet.
Stir in minced garlic and tomato paste until it darkens slightly.
Deglaze the pot with a splash of beef broth, water, or wine to loosen the browned bits.

Cooking

Return the beef and its juices back to the pot and add more broth, bay leaves, and thyme.
Simmer gently until the meat is almost tender, about 60 minutes.
Add the rinsed pearled barley and cook until the barley is plump and beef is fork-tender.
Finish with a splash of Worcestershire sauce or soy, and a handful of fresh parsley or chives.

Notes

For meal prep, freeze broth and beef in one container, and barley in another. To accommodate leftovers, reduce barley if planning to store for later. Skim fat from the soup as needed and adjust salt and brightness with lemon juice at the end.

Keyword Beef Barley Soup, Comfort Food, Crockpot Recipe, Easy Dinner, Hearty Soup