Beef & Barley Soup
Beef & Barley Soup is a warm and hearty dish that brings comfort on chilly days. This soup features tender beef, nutritious barley, and fresh vegetables all simmered together to create a flavorful meal. It’s perfect for a family dinner or a cozy night in.
Why Make This Recipe
There are many reasons to make Beef & Barley Soup. First, it’s easy to prepare and requires minimal hands-on time. Second, the combination of beef and barley makes it a filling option, ideal for feeding a crowd. Finally, using a slow cooker allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a delicious soup that warms your soul.
How to Make Beef & Barley Soup
Making Beef & Barley Soup is a simple process. All you need to do is gather the ingredients and follow the steps below.
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless chuck roast, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 1/2 cups carrots, cut thin
- 1 1/2 cups celery, thinly sliced
- 1 cup barley
- 6 cups beef broth
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- In a crock pot, add the beef, carrots, celery, barley, beef broth, onion, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Stir the ingredients to combine.
- Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours, or on high for 4-5 hours, until the beef is tender and the barley is cooked.
- Serve hot.
How to Serve Beef & Barley Soup
Serve your Beef & Barley Soup hot in bowls. You can add a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley on top for extra flavor. It pairs well with warm crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
How to Store Beef & Barley Soup
To store your Beef & Barley Soup, let it cool to room temperature. Then, transfer it to an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to store it longer, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.
Tips to Make Beef & Barley Soup
- For extra flavor, you can sear the beef in a skillet before adding it to the crock pot.
- Feel free to add other vegetables such as potatoes or peas to customize it to your liking.
- Make sure to taste and adjust the seasoning before serving.
Variation
You can easily adjust this recipe to suit your taste by adding different herbs like rosemary or oregano. You can also substitute the barley with quinoa or rice for a different twist.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen beef for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen beef. Just make sure to add extra cooking time if you’re using frozen meat.
2. Is there a way to make this recipe quicker?
Yes, if you don’t have a slow cooker, you can make it on the stove. Just simmer it in a pot for about 1.5 to 2 hours until the beef is tender.
3. Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! Beef & Barley Soup tastes even better the next day. You can make it a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just reheat it on the stove before serving.
Enjoy your delicious Beef & Barley Soup! It’s sure to become a favorite in your home.
