Beef Barley Soup: A Hearty and Nourishing Classic


Beef barley soup is a timeless, comforting dish that combines tender beef, wholesome barley, and flavorful vegetables in a rich, savory broth. This soup is perfect for chilly days, family dinners, or when you need a hearty, nourishing meal. It’s easy to prepare, customizable, and packed with nutrients, making it a great addition to your recipe collection. Follow this detailed, step-by-step guide to create a delicious pot of beef barley soup.

Why You’ll Love Beef Barley Soup

  • Hearty and Filling: Packed with protein, fiber, and vegetables, this soup is a complete meal.
  • Customizable: Adjust the ingredients to suit your preferences, such as adding more vegetables or using different cuts of beef.
  • Make-Ahead Friendly: The flavors deepen over time, making it perfect for meal prep.

Ingredients

For 6–8 servings, gather the following ingredients:

For the Soup Base:

  • Beef stew meat or chuck roast: 1 ½ pounds, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • Pearl barley: 1 cup, rinsed
  • Beef broth: 8 cups (low-sodium if preferred)
  • Water: 1–2 cups, as needed

For Flavor:

  • Onion: 1 large, finely chopped
  • Carrots: 2–3 medium, diced
  • Celery: 2 stalks, diced
  • Garlic: 2–3 cloves, minced
  • Tomato paste: 2 tablespoons
  • Bay leaf: 1
  • Dried thyme: 1 teaspoon
  • Worcestershire sauce: 1 tablespoon
  • Salt and black pepper: To taste

Optional Additions:

  • Mushrooms: 1 cup, sliced
  • Fresh parsley: Chopped, for garnish

For Cooking:

  • Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
  • All-purpose flour: 2 tablespoons (optional, for coating the beef)

Step-by-Step Method