Beef Barley Soup
Beef barley soup is a hearty and nutritious dish that combines tender chunks of beef, wholesome vegetables, and chewy barley in a savory broth. This classic comfort food has its roots in Eastern European cuisine, where it has been a staple for generations.
It is a perfect example of a “one-pot meal,” providing a well-rounded balance of protein, carbohydrates, and fiber. The rich flavor of the beef, complemented by the nutty taste of barley and the freshness of vegetables, creates a satisfying soup that warms the soul.
Whether you’re facing a chilly winter day or simply craving a delicious, wholesome meal, beef barley soup is sure to please.
Ingredients: This recipe serves 6-8 people.
- 1 lb (450g) beef chuck or stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 cup barley (pearled or hulled)
- 8 cups beef broth (low-sodium recommended)
- 2 cups water
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
How to Make Beef Barley Soup
Brown the Beef:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the beef cubes in batches to avoid overcrowding. Sear the beef for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides.
Remove the browned beef from the pot and set it aside.
Sauté the Aromatics:
In the same pot, add the diced onion and garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion is translucent and fragrant, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom of the pot. These bits add flavor to the soup.
Add the sliced carrots and celery, cooking for an additional 5 minutes until they begin to soften.
Combine Ingredients:
Return the browned beef to the pot, along with any juices that may have accumulated.
Stir in the barley, beef broth, and water, ensuring the ingredients are well combined.
Add the bay leaves, dried thyme, dried rosemary, Worcestershire sauce (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper.
Simmer the Soup:
Bring the soup to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot, allowing it to simmer for about 1 to 1½ hours or until the beef is tender and the barley is cooked. Stir occasionally, and check the consistency; if it becomes too thick, add more water or broth.
Final Seasoning:
After the soup has simmered and the flavors have melded, taste it and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
Remove the bay leaves before serving.
Serve:
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Serve hot with crusty bread or crackers for a complete meal.
Chef’s Note:
Beef Selection: Chuck roast is ideal for this recipe because it becomes tender and flavorful during slow cooking. You can also use other cuts like brisket or round, but ensure they have some marbling for the best flavor.
Barley Type: Pearled barley cooks faster and has a slightly softer texture than hulled barley, which retains more nutrients but takes longer to cook. Choose based on your preference for texture and cooking time.
Vegetable Variations: Feel free to customize the soup with additional vegetables, such as potatoes, green beans, or peas, to suit your taste or to use up what you have on hand.
Storage: This soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days and can also be frozen for longer storage. If freezing, consider undercooking the barley slightly, as it will continue to absorb liquid when reheating.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: ~320 kcal
- Protein: 24g
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 5g
Sodium: ~600 mg (depending on broth used)
Beef barley soup is not only hearty and filling but also packed with nutrients. The beef provides high-quality protein, while the barley adds complex carbohydrates and dietary fiber, which aid in digestion and help maintain steady energy levels. The vegetables contribute essential vitamins and minerals, making this soup a wholesome option for a nutritious meal.
Enjoy your homemade beef barley soup—it’s the perfect dish for sharing with family and friends, bringing warmth and comfort to any table!