Step 1: Prepare the Beef
- Heat the olive oil or butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- Season the beef pieces with salt and black pepper.
- Add the beef to the pot in batches to avoid overcrowding, and sear until browned on all sides. This step enhances the flavor of the soup. Remove the beef and set it aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
- In the same pot, add the onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, being careful not to burn it.
Step 3: Build the Broth
- Return the seared beef to the pot.
- Pour in the beef broth, diced tomatoes (with their juice), and Worcestershire sauce.
- Add the thyme, bay leaf, and barley. Stir to combine.
Step 4: Simmer the Soup
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot with a lid and let it simmer for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the beef is tender and the barley is cooked. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 5: Add Corn
- Add the corn to the pot and stir well. Allow the soup to simmer for an additional 5–10 minutes to heat the corn through.
Step 6: Final Seasoning
- Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and black pepper as needed.
- Remove the bay leaf before serving.
Serving the Soup:
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
- Serve hot with crusty bread or crackers to soak up the rich broth.
Tips for Success:
- Choose the Right Beef: Use beef stew meat or chuck roast for the best results, as these cuts become tender and flavorful when simmered.
- Pearl Barley: Rinse the barley before adding it to the soup to remove excess starch.
- Make it Ahead: Beef barley soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Beef: Provides protein and iron, essential for energy and muscle health.
- Barley: A whole grain packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals, supporting heart health and digestion.
- Vegetables: Offer a variety of vitamins, antioxidants, and natural sweetness to balance the savory broth.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
Beef barley soup is the ultimate comfort food—hearty, wholesome, and packed with flavor. It’s versatile enough to adapt with your favorite vegetables or grains and makes a perfect meal for weeknights or special occasions. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal-prepping for the week, this soup will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.
Enjoy a steaming bowl of beef barley soup, and let its rich aroma and taste warm your heart and home!
