Description
This hearty Beef and Barley Soup features tender chunks of beef, wholesome pearl barley, and flavorful vegetables simmered in a rich, savory broth. It’s a classic comfort food perfect for chilly days or make-ahead family meals.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – for searing the beef and adding richness
- 1 ½ pounds stewing beef (chuck or round) – becomes tender when simmered
- 1 large onion, diced – adds depth and sweetness
- 2 carrots, chopped – provides color and mild earthy flavor
- 2 celery stalks, chopped – enhances aroma and flavor base
- 3 cloves garlic, minced – adds savory warmth
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste – deepens flavor and color
- 6 cups beef broth – creates the rich soup base
- ¾ cup pearl barley – adds chewy texture and nutty taste
- 1 bay leaf – for aromatic depth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme – adds herby flavor
- Salt and black pepper – to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped – for garnish and freshness
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add beef in batches and brown on all sides to build flavor. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pot, add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for about 5 minutes until softened, then add garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
- Stir in tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes to caramelize and enhance flavor.
- Pour in a small amount of beef broth and scrape the bottom to deglaze the pot.
- Return beef to the pot. Add remaining beef broth, barley, bay leaf, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 60–70 minutes, stirring occasionally, until beef and barley are tender.
- Remove the bay leaf, taste, and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Sprinkle with chopped parsley before serving and enjoy warm.
Notes
- For a thicker texture, simmer uncovered for an additional 10 minutes.
- Use chuck roast or stewing beef for the most tender results.
- This soup tastes even better the next day as flavors develop overnight.
- Freeze leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
- Substitute beef with mushrooms or lentils for a vegetarian version.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 2 cups)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
Keywords: beef and barley soup, hearty soup, comfort food, barley recipes, homemade soup, beef soup, winter recipes