Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Hearty Beef and Barley Soup is a comforting, filling dish that brings together tender chunks of beef, nutty barley, and an array of vegetables in a rich, savory broth. It’s perfect for cold days or when you need a nourishing one-pot meal. Packed with flavor and texture, this soup is a classic that never goes out of style.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

beef stew meat (cut into bite-sized pieces)olive oilyellow onioncarrotscelerygarlic clovesbeef brothwaterpearl barleytomato pastebay leavesdried thymesalt and black pepperfresh parsley (for garnish)

directions

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.

Add beef stew meat and brown on all sides. Remove and set aside.

In the same pot, sauté chopped onions, carrots, and celery until softened, about 5-7 minutes.

Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.

Stir in tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes to deepen the flavor.

Return the beef to the pot, then pour in beef broth and water.

Add pearl barley, bay leaves, thyme, salt, and pepper.

Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer, covered, for 60-75 minutes, or until the beef is tender and the barley is cooked through.

Remove bay leaves and adjust seasoning if needed.

Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 6 servings.Preparation time: 15 minutesCooking time: 75 minutesTotal time: 90 minutes

Variations

Use diced tomatoes for a richer tomato flavor.

Add mushrooms for extra umami.

Swap pearl barley with quick-cooking barley for a shorter cook time.

Include a splash of Worcestershire sauce for added depth.

Try using leftover roast beef for a shortcut version.

storage/reheating

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.Soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove over medium heat until warmed through.Add a bit of water or broth if the soup has thickened too much.

FAQs

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes, brown the beef first, then add all ingredients to a slow cooker and cook on low for 7-8 hours.

Can I use ground beef instead of stew meat?

Yes, brown and drain the ground beef before adding it to the soup.

Is barley gluten-free?

No, barley contains gluten. For a gluten-free version, use rice or quinoa instead.

Can I add potatoes?

Yes, diced potatoes can be added in the last 30 minutes of cooking.

What cut of beef is best?

Chuck roast or stew meat works well for tenderness and flavor.

Can I use chicken broth?

Beef broth is preferred for depth, but chicken broth works in a pinch.

Why did my barley soak up all the broth?

Barley continues to absorb liquid as it sits. Add more broth or water when reheating.

Should I rinse the barley?

Yes, rinse it under cold water to remove excess starch and debris.

Can I use quick barley?

Yes, but adjust cooking time according to package instructions.

Can I add spinach or kale?

Absolutely—add in the last 10 minutes of cooking for a boost of greens.

Conclusion

Hearty Beef and Barley Soup is the ultimate cozy meal, perfect for satisfying your hunger and warming you from the inside out. With its tender beef, wholesome grains, and rich broth, this soup is a timeless favorite that’s both delicious and nourishing. Ideal for make-ahead meals or casual gatherings, it’s sure to become a regular in your rotation.