Beef Barley Soup is a hearty and nourishing meal that’s perfect for chilly days or when you need a comforting bowl of goodness. This recipe combines tender chunks of beef, nutritious barley, and a medley of vegetables for a deliciously satisfying soup. Let’s dive into this classic recipe step-by-step.
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
- 2/3 cup onion, chopped
- 10-12 mushrooms, sliced
- 2 tablespoons beef base (this is different than beef broth; it is a base that makes beef broth)
- 8-10 cups water
- 1 or 2 large bay leaves
- 1 cup uncooked pearl barley
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Beef
- Brown the Beef:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a small amount of oil over medium-high heat. Add the pieces of chuck roast and brown them on all sides. This step helps to develop a rich flavor.
- Remove and Set Aside:
- Once browned, remove the beef from the pot and set it aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
- Cook the Vegetables:
- In the same pot, add the chopped onion, sliced celery, and thinly cut carrots. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
- Add Mushrooms and Garlic:
- Add the sliced mushrooms and minced garlic to the pot. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 3: Build the Soup Base
- Add Beef Base and Water:
- Add the 2 tablespoons of beef base to the pot, then pour in 8-10 cups of water. Stir well to dissolve the beef base, creating a rich broth.
- Return Beef to Pot:
- Return the browned beef pieces to the pot, along with any accumulated juices.
Step 4: Simmer the Soup
- Add Seasonings:
- Add the bay leaves, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.
- Simmer:
- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender.
Step 5: Add Barley
- Cook Barley:
- Add the uncooked pearl barley to the soup and stir well. Continue to simmer for another 30-40 minutes, or until the barley is tender and cooked through.
Step 6: Serve
- Remove Bay Leaves:
- Remove and discard the bay leaves.
- Serve Hot:
- Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot. Enjoy this hearty and comforting Beef Barley Soup!
Cooking Notes and Tips
- Beef: Use a well-marbled chuck roast for the best flavor and tenderness.
- Beef Base: Beef base is more concentrated than beef broth and adds a deeper flavor to the soup. It can be found in the soup aisle of most grocery stores.
- Barley: Pearl barley is recommended for its chewy texture and ability to hold up well in soups.
Variations
Vegetable Beef Barley Soup
- Add Vegetables:
- Stir in additional vegetables like potatoes, peas, or green beans for added nutrition and flavor.
Spicy Beef Barley Soup
- Add Spice:
- Add 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño for a spicy kick.
Mushroom Beef Barley Soup
- Increase Mushrooms:
- Double the amount of mushrooms for a more pronounced mushroom flavor.
Serving Suggestions
With Sides
- With Bread:
- Serve with crusty bread or dinner rolls to soak up the delicious broth.
- With Salad:
- Pair with a fresh green salad or Caesar salad for a balanced meal.
With Beverages
- With Wine:
- Enjoy with a glass of red wine such as Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon.
- With Beer:
- Serve with a cold beer for a classic pairing.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this soup ahead of time? A: Yes, this soup can be made ahead of time and tastes even better the next day. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
Q: Can I freeze this soup? A: Yes, you can freeze Beef Barley Soup. Let it cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Q: What if I don’t have beef base? A: If you don’t have beef base, you can use beef broth instead of water. Adjust the salt to taste, as beef broth can be saltier than the base.
Q: Can I use a different type of meat? A: Yes, you can substitute the chuck roast with stew meat or even ground beef, though the texture and flavor may vary.
Beef Barley Soup is a hearty and comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its tender chunks of beef, nutritious barley, and flavorful vegetables, this soup is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try one of the variations, Beef Barley Soup is always delicious and satisfying. Enjoy making and sharing this delightful dish with your family and friends!
