Name: Savory Beef and Barley Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 2 h
Total time: 2 h 20 min
Yield: 8
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: ¼ tsp black pepper; ½ tsp salt; ¾ cup pearl barley, rinsed; 1 large yellow onion, diced; 1 tsp dried thyme; 1.5 lbs beef chuck roast, cubed; 2 celery stalks, diced; 2 medium carrots, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 6 cups low-sodium beef broth; Optional garnish: fresh parsley, chopped

Savor Savory Beef and Barley Soup, a hearty, nutritious dish with tender beef, chewy barley, and vibrant vegetables. This comforting, slow-simmered soup is perfect for cozy weeknight dinners, delivering rich flavors and wholesome goodness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Savory Beef and Barley Soup is a warm, soul-warming dish that combines tender beef, nutty barley, and hearty vegetables in a rich, flavorful broth, making it an ideal choice for chilly evenings or busy weeknights. This budget-friendly recipe is simple to prepare, with the slow simmering process melding savory flavors effortlessly. Its versatility allows for dietary customizations, ensuring it’s a family favorite. Packed with protein, fiber, and nutrients, this soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a side salad, offering a wholesome, satisfying meal that’s as comforting as it is delicious.

Recipe Tips and Tricks

Brown Beef First: Sear beef for deeper flavor before adding to the pot.
Rinse Barley: Rinse pearl barley to remove excess starch for a clearer broth.
Simmer Gently: Cook on low heat to tenderize beef and meld flavors without overcooking.
Skim Foam: Remove foam during the first 30 minutes for a cleaner broth.
Adjust Consistency: Add more broth for a thinner soup or simmer longer to thicken.
Taste and Season: Adjust salt at the end, as broth and beef vary in saltiness.

Yield: 8 Servings

Savory Beef and Barley Soup

Savory Beef and Barley Soup, a hearty, nutritious dish perfect for cozy, wholesome dinners.

Prep Time 15 minutes

Cook Time 2 hours

Additional Time 5 minutes

Total Time 2 hours 20 minutes

Ingredients

¼ tsp black pepper
½ tsp salt
¾ cup pearl barley, rinsed
1 large yellow onion, diced
1 tsp dried thyme
1.5 lbs beef chuck roast, cubed
2 celery stalks, diced
2 medium carrots, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
6 cups low-sodium beef broth
Optional garnish: fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

Prep Beef: Cube beef chuck roast and season with salt and pepper for a flavorful start.
Brown Beef: Heat a large pot over medium-high; sear beef for 5-7 minutes until browned, then remove.
Sauté Veggies: In the same pot, add onion, carrots, and celery; cook for 5 minutes until softened.
Add Garlic: Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Return Beef: Add browned beef back to the pot, along with rinsed barley.
Add Broth: Pour in beef broth, stir in thyme, and bring to a gentle boil.
Simmer Soup: Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1.5-2 hours until beef and barley are tender.
Check Consistency: Stir and add more broth if too thick; skim any foam from the surface.
Season to Taste: Adjust salt and pepper, ensuring balanced flavors based on broth and beef.
Serve with Flair: Ladle into bowls, garnish with parsley, and enjoy this hearty, comforting soup!

Notes

Browning beef enhances flavor but can be skipped; raw beef will cook through during simmering.
Rinse barley to avoid a gummy texture and ensure a clear broth.
Leftovers thicken as barley absorbs liquid; add broth when reheating.
Serve with crusty bread, cornbread, or a side salad for a complete meal.

Nutrition Information

Yield

Serving Size

1
Amount Per Serving Calories 244Total Fat 13gSaturated Fat 5gTrans Fat 1gUnsaturated Fat 7gCholesterol 71mgSodium 596mgCarbohydrates 8gFiber 1gSugar 2gProtein 24g

The recipes and nutritional information on Yum Tonight are for informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized dietary advice.

Ingredients Notes

Beef: Chuck roast, cubed, offers rich flavor; stew meat is a convenient alternative.
Pearl Barley: Adds chewy texture and nutty flavor; hulled barley works but takes longer to cook.
Carrots: Fresh carrots provide sweetness and crunch; baby carrots save prep time.
Celery: Fresh celery adds savory depth; ensure freshness for best flavor.
Onion: Yellow onion builds a savory base; shallots offer a milder taste.
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic enhances aroma; garlic powder is a quick substitute.
Beef Broth: Low-sodium broth controls saltiness; vegetable broth can substitute for a lighter flavor.
Thyme: Dried thyme adds earthy warmth; fresh thyme or rosemary can substitute.

Variations and Substitutions

Protein Swap: Use ground beef, lamb, or mushrooms for a vegetarian version.
Grain Alternatives: Swap barley for farro, quinoa, or brown rice for varied texture.
Veggie Add-Ins: Include potatoes, green beans, or kale for extra nutrition.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free grains like quinoa and ensure broth is gluten-free certified.
Low-Sodium: Use low-sodium broth and reduce added salt for a lighter dish.
Spicy Twist: Add red pepper flakes or cayenne for a subtle heat boost.
Herb Variations: Swap thyme for oregano, bay leaf, or parsley for different flavors.

Storage Options

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days; reheat gently on the stovetop.
Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months; thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Warm with a splash of broth to restore consistency; stir well.
Meal Prep: Portion into containers for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.