BEST EVER BEEF AND BARLEY SOUP
There’s nothing quite like a steaming bowl of soup to warm you up on a chilly winter day, and this Best Ever Beef and Barley Soup does just that. Imagine tender pieces of beef mingling with hearty barley and a medley of vegetables, all simmered in a rich, flavorful broth. It’s a family favorite that even the kids will love, making it a perfect meal for those cozy nights in. Plus, it’s not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it a healthy choice for everyone.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This soup is so versatile and comforting. The hearty barley adds a wonderful texture, while the tender beef and flavorful vegetables create a complete meal in a bowl. It’s ideal for meal prep because it freezes well, so you can always have some on hand for those days when you’re under the weather or just need a quick, satisfying meal. It’s also easily adaptable for a slow cooker, saving you time and effort.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Non-stick fry pan
- Crockpot or slow cooker
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless chuck roast, trimmed and cut into 1/2-inch pieces
- 1 1/2 cups carrots, thinly sliced
- 1 1/2 cups celery, thinly sliced
- 2/3 cup onion, chopped
- 1 package pre-sliced mushrooms (8-ounce)
- 2 tablespoons beef base (different from beef broth, it creates broth)
- 8-10 cups water
- 1 large bay leaf
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Brown the beef in a non-stick fry pan over medium heat, stirring frequently until all sides are browned.
- Transfer the beef to the crockpot. Add the carrots, celery, onion, mushrooms, beef base, water, garlic, and bay leaf.
- Cook on high heat for one hour. Then, add the pearl barley, reduce the heat to low, and continue to cook until the vegetables and beef are tender.
- Stir in salt and pepper to taste, and discard the bay leaf before serving.
Tips for Success
- Ensure the beef is browned properly to enhance the flavor of the soup.
- Adjust the water amount based on your desired consistency. More water will make it soupier, while less will make it thicker.
- For a deeper flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine to the broth.
Additional Tips and Variations
- For added depth, try sautéing the vegetables before adding them to the crockpot.
- Include other vegetables like potatoes or peas for extra nutrition.
- If you prefer a vegetarian version, simply omit the beef and use vegetable broth instead.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
Calories: Approximately 250
Protein: 15g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fat: 8g
Fiber: 5g
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes, you can use beef stew meat or any other cut suitable for slow cooking.
How long can I store this soup?
This soup can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
Can I make this soup on the stovetop?
Absolutely! After browning the beef, simmer all ingredients on low heat until the beef and vegetables are tender.
Conclusion
Give this Best Ever Beef and Barley Soup a try and experience the comfort it brings on a cold day. With its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, it’s sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. We’d love to hear how it turned out for you, so don’t forget to share your experiences and any tweaks you made in the comments below!