It’s soup season, and if you’re like me, you’re excited about it! Soup is not only delicious, but it’s also an easy and healthy one-pot meal that can be made ahead of time. This Beef and Barley Soup recipe is no exception. It’s packed with tender chunks of beef, loads of vegetables, and pearl barley, making it a hearty and nutritious option for any meal.

Why You’ll Love this Beef and Barley Soup

• It’s healthy: This soup is high in protein and fiber, thanks to the beef and barley. You’ll feel satisfied and nourished after enjoying a bowl.
• It’s filling: Say goodbye to feeling hungry shortly after eating soup. This recipe has staying power, keeping you satisfied for longer periods.
• It’s meal prep friendly: Make a big batch of this soup and refrigerate it for up to 3-4 days or freeze it for up to 3 months. It’s a convenient option for quick and easy meals on busy days.
• It’s versatile: You can choose to cook this soup on the stove top or in a slow cooker, depending on your preference and schedule.

How to Make Beef Barley Soup

Making this soup is a breeze. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Choose and prepare your beef: Cut a steak or beef roast into cubes for the recipe. There’s no need to buy specific “stewing” meat as any cut will work. Trim and chop the beef yourself to save money.
2. Brown your beef: This step adds incredible flavor to the soup, so don’t skip it. Brown the beef in batches to ensure it browns properly.
3. Add your onions and spices: After browning the beef, add onions and spices to the pot. Toasting the spices enhances their flavor.
4. Add your vegetables, broth, and barley: Once the onions and spices are fragrant, add the remaining ingredients to the pot. Simmer until everything is tender, stirring occasionally.
5. Serve and enjoy: Serve your Beef and Barley Soup hot, and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

FAQ: Crockpot Cooking and Freezing

• Can I make this Beef Barley Soup in the Crockpot? Absolutely! Check out my Slow Cooker Beef Barley Soup Recipe here for a step-by-step video guide.
• How do you freeze this Beef and Barley Soup? This soup freezes well. Pour it into a large freezer bag, seal, and freeze flat for easy thawing. Alternatively, use freezer-safe jars for single portions.

Try this Hearty Beef and Barley Soup Today!

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon oil
• 1 lb beef, cut into cubes
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 3-4 large carrots, peeled and chopped
• 2 ribs celery, chopped
• 2 teaspoons minced garlic
• 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 5 cups low sodium beef broth
• 3/4 cup pearl or pot barley, rinsed
• 3 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 bay leaves
• Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a large dutch oven or soup pot, brown the beef in oil over medium-high heat, about 2 minutes per side. Set aside.
2. Add onion, carrots, and celery to the pot, and cook and stir for 3-4 minutes, until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in garlic, salt, thyme, and pepper, and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add broth, barley, tomato paste, and bay leaves to the pot. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to medium-low. Add the beef back in, cover, and simmer for 35-45 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the barley and carrots are tender.
5. Serve hot with a sprinkle of fresh parsley, if desired.

What are you waiting for? Give this delicious Beef and Barley Soup a try, and let me know what you think! Tag @thereciperebel or use the hashtag #thereciperebel to share your creations. Happy cooking!