Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Hearty Beef & Barley Soup is a rich and satisfying meal loaded with tender beef, nutty barley, and a medley of vegetables simmered in a savory broth. Perfect for chilly evenings, it’s a comforting, wholesome dish that’s easy to make and fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
stew beef (cut into bite-sized pieces)olive oilonioncarrotscelerygarlic clovesbeef brothwaterpearl barleydiced tomatoesbay leavesdried thymeparsley (fresh or dried)saltblack pepper

directions

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

Add the beef pieces and sear until browned on all sides, then remove and set aside.

In the same pot, sauté chopped onion, carrots, and celery until softened.

Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Return the beef to the pot, then add beef broth, water, diced tomatoes, bay leaves, thyme, salt, and pepper.

Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer and cook uncovered for about 45 minutes.

Stir in the pearl barley and continue simmering for an additional 30-40 minutes, until the beef is tender and the barley is cooked.

Remove bay leaves, adjust seasoning if necessary, and garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 6 servings.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Initial simmering time: 45 minutes
Barley cooking time: 30-40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Variations

Use mushrooms for extra earthy flavor.
Substitute chicken or turkey for a lighter version.
Add spinach or kale at the end for a green twist.
Use quick-cooking barley to shorten the cooking time.

storage/reheating

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat gently over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water if the soup thickens too much.
Freeze for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use leftover roast beef?
Yes, add it during the last 10 minutes of cooking to avoid overcooking.

Can I make it in a slow cooker?
Absolutely, cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

Can I use quick barley?
Yes, but reduce the simmering time according to the package instructions.

Is it freezer-friendly?
Yes, just note the barley may absorb more liquid upon reheating.

Can I add potatoes?
Definitely, just dice and add them with the vegetables.

What cut of beef is best?
Chuck roast or stew meat work wonderfully.

How thick should the soup be?
It’s hearty but adjustable—add more broth if you prefer it soupier.

Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes, omit the beef, use vegetable broth, and add more veggies or beans.

Does the barley need to be soaked?
No soaking is necessary for pearl barley.

Can I use beef bouillon?
Yes, dissolve it in water to replace beef broth if needed.

Conclusion

Hearty Beef & Barley Soup is a timeless classic that brings together deep, savory flavors and nourishing ingredients in one comforting bowl. It’s the perfect meal to keep you warm and satisfied, making it a must-have in your collection of cozy recipes. Give it a try and enjoy every hearty spoonful!