Hearty Beef Barley Soup

Description:

Hearty Beef Barley Soup is a classic comfort food, featuring tender chunks of beef, nutty barley, and a medley of vegetables simmered in a rich, savory broth. Perfect for chilly days, this wholesome and satisfying soup is a one-pot wonder that will warm your heart and soul.

Origin:

Beef barley soup has roots in traditional European cuisine, cherished for its simplicity and ability to stretch ingredients while delivering rich, robust flavors.

Ingredients:

For the Soup Base:

• 1 lb (450g) beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 cups beef broth
• 1 cup water
• 1 can (14 oz/400g) diced tomatoes
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)

For the Barley:

• 3/4 cup pearl barley, rinsed

Optional Garnish:

• Fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions:

Brown the Beef:

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Season the beef with salt and black pepper. Add the beef to the pot and sear on all sides until browned. Remove the beef and set aside.

Sauté the Vegetables:

2. In the same pot, add the onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute.

Build the Soup Base:

3. Return the beef to the pot. Add the beef broth, water, diced tomatoes, bay leaf, thyme, rosemary, and smoked paprika (if using). Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 1 hour.

Add the Barley:

4. After 1 hour, stir in the rinsed barley. Cover and continue to simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the barley and beef are tender.

Season and Serve:

5. Remove the bay leaf. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and black pepper if needed.
6. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley.

Tips for Success:

• For a richer flavor, sear the beef in small batches to avoid overcrowding the pot.
• If you prefer a thicker soup, simmer uncovered during the last 15 minutes to reduce the broth.
• Add a splash of red wine or Worcestershire sauce for added depth.

Recommendations:

• Serve with crusty bread or dinner rolls to soak up the savory broth.
• Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently, adding a splash of broth if needed.

Nutrition (per serving, approximate for 6 servings):

• Calories: ~350
• Protein: 25g
• Fat: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 6g
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 800mg

Hearty Beef Barley Soup is a timeless dish that’s perfect for sharing around the dinner table. It’s comfort food at its finest! ✨