Easy Beef Barley Soup Recipe

I remember the first time I made beef barley soup. It was one of those cold, rainy days when nothing sounds better than a warm bowl of soup. I had some beef stew meat in the freezer and a pantry full of barley, so I decided to give it a try. The result was a hearty, comforting soup that quickly became a favorite in my house.

Now, whenever I want something satisfying but easy, I make this beef barley soup. The tender beef, chewy barley, and flavorful broth come together in a way that feels like a big, cozy hug in a bowl. It’s simple, filling, and perfect for chilly evenings.

Servings	Total
6	1hr 10mins

Where Did You Learn This Recipe?

I learned about beef barley soup from a friend who made it for us one winter evening. It was so flavorful and comforting that I decided to try making it myself. After a few tries and adjusting the ingredients to suit my taste, I came up with this version that my family loves.

Why Beef Barley Soup

Beef barley soup is perfect for when you need a hearty meal without too much fuss. It’s a one-pot meal that’s simple to prepare, and it keeps well in the fridge for leftovers. The barley soaks up all the flavors from the beef and vegetables, making every spoonful satisfying. It’s also a great way to use up leftover beef from a roast or stew.

What Is Beef Barley Soup Made Of?

This soup is made with a handful of wholesome ingredients that cook together to create a rich, comforting meal:

• Beef stew meat – Tender chunks of beef that cook to perfection.
• Barley – Adds texture and absorbs the flavor of the broth.
• Carrots, celery, and onions – The classic soup vegetables for depth of flavor.
• Garlic – Adds an aromatic base.
• Beef broth – The heart of the soup.
• Herbs and seasonings – Bay leaves, thyme, and salt bring everything together.

What to Have with Beef Barley Soup

This soup is great on its own, but here are a few sides that pair well with it:

• Crusty bread – Perfect for dipping into the soup.
• Green salad – A light, fresh side balances out the richness.
• Roasted vegetables – Caramelized vegetables add extra flavor.
• Cheese toast – For a little added indulgence.

Is Beef Barley Soup Healthy?

Beef barley soup is quite healthy, packed with protein from the beef and fiber from the barley and vegetables. You can make it even lighter by using lean beef and reducing the salt in the broth. It’s a great source of vitamins and minerals, especially when served with extra veggies.

Kitchen Equipment

You’ll need:

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board and knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon

Ingredients:

• 1 pound beef stew meat, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 cups beef broth (low-sodium)
• ½ cup pearl barley
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Brown the Beef:
   • Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
   • Add the beef stew meat and cook until browned on all sides, about 5–7 minutes.
   • Remove the beef from the pot and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
   • In the same pot, add the diced onion, carrots, and celery.
   • Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften.
   • Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the Broth and Barley:
   • Return the browned beef to the pot.
   • Add the beef broth, barley, bay leaves, and thyme. Stir to combine.
4. Simmer the Soup:
   • Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.
   • Cover and simmer for about 45 minutes, or until the barley is tender and the beef is fully cooked.
5. Season and Serve:
   • Remove the bay leaves and season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.
   • Serve hot with a slice of crusty bread.

Tips

• Use homemade beef broth for even more flavor if you have it.
• Add extra veggies – Mushrooms or spinach are great additions.
• For a richer broth, add a splash of red wine while simmering.
• Make it ahead – This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes! You can use chuck roast or any other tender cut of beef, just cut it into small pieces.

2. Can I use a slow cooker?
Yes, you can. Brown the beef and sauté the vegetables first, then add everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6–7 hours.

3. Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes! Beef barley soup freezes well. Just let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Conclusion

Beef barley soup is a filling and comforting dish that’s perfect for any time of year. It’s simple to make, full of flavor, and packed with healthy ingredients. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is sure to satisfy. Try it out and enjoy a hearty, homemade soup that’s easy to love!

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