Indulge in a comforting, hearty bowl of Beef Barley Soup, a classic dish perfect for chilly evenings or when you’re craving something nourishing. Made with tender chunks of chuck roast, a medley of fresh vegetables, and wholesome barley, this soup is a delicious blend of rich flavors and textures.
The slightly nutty, chewy barley complements the savory beef and vegetables, creating a filling meal that’s perfect for family gatherings, meal prep, or a cozy dinner at home. Follow this recipe for a soup that’s sure to warm your heart and soul!
Ingredients :
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 3 lbs chuck roast, trimmed
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 stalks celery, thinly sliced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 6 cups low-sodium beef broth
- 1 (14.5 oz) can fire-roasted tomatoes
- 2 bay leaves
- 2/3 cup pearled barley
- 1 (14.5 oz) can corn, drained
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions :
- Prepare the Beef: In a large Dutch oven or stockpot, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the chuck roast, searing each side for about 3-4 minutes or until browned. Remove the beef and set aside on a plate.
- Cook the Vegetables: In the same pot, add the diced carrots, celery, and onion. Sauté the vegetables for 4-5 minutes until they begin to soften and release their aroma. Add the minced garlic, parsley, oregano, and thyme. Stir and cook for an additional minute, allowing the herbs and garlic to bloom.
- Build the Soup Base: Pour in the low-sodium beef broth and add the fire-roasted tomatoes. Stir, then add the bay leaves and return the seared chuck roast to the pot. Bring the soup to a gentle simmer over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it cook for 1 ½ to 2 hours, or until the beef is fork-tender.
- Add the Barley and Corn: Once the beef is tender, add the pearled barley and drained corn to the pot. Cover and cook for an additional 30 minutes, allowing the barley to absorb the flavors of the soup.
- Final Simmer and Shred the Beef: Uncover the pot and continue simmering for 15 minutes, giving the barley a bit more time to cook without becoming too soft. Remove the chuck roast from the pot, trim away any fat or gristle, then shred or cut the beef into bite-sized pieces. Return the beef to the soup and stir.
- Season and Serve: Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with salt and freshly ground black pepper. For an extra kick, sprinkle a few pinches of cracked black pepper or a dash of cayenne pepper, if desired. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley if you like.
Tips for the Best Beef Barley Soup
- Choosing the Right Cut of Beef: Chuck roast is ideal for this recipe due to its rich marbling and tenderness when slow-cooked. If you’re short on time, pre-cut stew meat can be used, though it may have a slightly different texture.
- Broth Choice Matters: Using a low-sodium beef broth allows you to control the salt level in your soup, making it easier to season to taste. For an even richer flavor, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a small amount of red wine while simmering the beef.
- Customize the Flavor: For a deeper, more layered taste, add a pinch of smoked paprika or a few dashes of hot sauce. Cajun seasoning is another excellent choice if you want a bit of spice and warmth in your soup.
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables like potatoes, green beans, or mushrooms. Adding a handful of spinach or kale at the end can give a boost of nutrients without changing the texture of the soup.
- Barley Cooking Tips: Pearled barley has a slightly chewy texture and adds a nutty flavor to the soup. Avoid overcooking, as it can become mushy. If you’re making a large batch, consider cooking the barley separately and adding it to individual bowls to prevent it from absorbing too much liquid in the leftovers.
Conclusion :
This Beef Barley Soup isn’t just a meal—it’s an experience. The slow-simmered beef, tender vegetables, and hearty barley come together to create a comforting bowl that’s as nourishing as it is satisfying. Whether you’re seeking a cozy dinner to unwind after a long day or a crowd-pleasing dish for your next family gathering, this soup delivers on both flavor and heartiness.
It’s also highly adaptable—feel free to customize it with your favorite veggies, extra seasonings, or even a dollop of sour cream on top. With minimal effort and a little patience, you can prepare a meal that’s packed with flavor and perfect for meal prep, leftovers, or feeding a group. This timeless recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen, providing both comfort and nutrition in every bite.
