Beef Barley Soup

This Beef Barley Soup recipe is a hearty, comforting meal that’s perfect for cold weather or a filling dinner. Packed with tender chuck roast, vegetables, and pearled barley, this soup is rich in flavor and nutrients. The beef is seared for added depth, and the broth is simmered with herbs and spices to create a savory, satisfying base. It’s an easy one-pot meal that can be customized with your favorite ingredients and served with crusty bread or a fresh salad. Ideal for meal prepping or freezing, this soup keeps well and tastes even better the next day. Perfect for those looking for a filling, wholesome dish to warm up with.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 3 lbs chuck roast
• 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
• 2 stalks celery, sliced thin
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, crushed
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 6 cups low-sodium beef broth
• 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced fire-roasted tomatoes
• 2 bay leaves
• ⅔ cup medium pearled barley
• 1 (14.5-ounce) can corn, drained
• Salt, to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Sear the Beef:
   Heat the vegetable oil in a Dutch oven or large stockpot over medium heat. Add the chuck roast and sear on all sides until browned. Remove the beef from the pot and set it aside on a plate.
2. Cook the Vegetables:
   In the same pot, add the chopped carrots, celery, and onion. Cook for 4-5 minutes until the vegetables soften. Add the crushed garlic, parsley, oregano, and thyme, cooking for 1 more minute while stirring constantly.
3. Simmer the Soup:
   Pour in the beef broth, diced fire-roasted tomatoes, and bay leaves. Return the seared beef to the pot. Bring the mixture to a simmer, reduce the heat, and cook for 1 ½ hours, or until the beef is fork-tender.
4. Add Barley and Corn:
   Stir in the pearled barley and drained corn. Cover the pot and cook for 30 minutes. Afterward, remove the lid and continue to simmer for an additional 15 minutes, allowing the soup to thicken slightly.
5. Shred the Beef:
   Remove the beef from the pot and trim away any fat or gristle. Cut or shred the beef into bite-sized chunks and return it to the pot. Season the soup with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting and Hearty: This Beef Barley Soup is a perfect dish for cold weather, offering rich flavors and satisfying textures.
• One-Pot Meal: Easy to make with minimal cleanup, this soup combines tender beef, hearty vegetables, and chewy barley in one pot.
• Customizable: You can adjust the seasonings and ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs.

Tips

• Searing the Beef: Ensure that the beef is well-browned to develop rich flavors in the broth.
• Tender Beef: If the beef isn’t fork-tender after simmering for 1 ½ hours, continue simmering until it is.
• Barley Texture: Pearled barley can take different cooking times depending on the brand. Check for doneness by tasting a few grains.

Variations and Substitutions

• Different Meats: Swap the chuck roast for stew meat or a leaner cut of beef, though chuck roast adds great flavor and tenderness.
• Add More Veggies: Add mushrooms, parsnips, or potatoes for extra texture and flavor.
• Vegetarian Version: Omit the beef and use vegetable broth, adding more vegetables or beans for protein.

FAQs

Can I make this soup in advance?
Yes, this soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors will deepen as it sits.

Can I freeze Beef Barley Soup?
Yes, you can freeze the soup in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Just be sure to cool it completely before freezing, and reheat thoroughly before serving.

What can I use instead of barley?
You can substitute with rice, quinoa, or pasta if you prefer. Adjust cooking times based on the grain you choose.

Serving and Suggestions

• Side Dishes: Pair this hearty soup with warm crusty bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
• Toppings: Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for an added burst of flavor.
• Leftovers: Beef Barley Soup makes excellent leftovers, perfect for lunch or an easy dinner the next day.