Introduction
Beef Barley Soup is a hearty and nourishing dish that combines tender beef, nutritious vegetables, and chewy barley in a savory broth. This comforting soup is perfect for chilly days and makes for a filling meal that’s easy to prepare. The combination of flavors and textures creates a delightful experience in every spoonful, making it a favorite among families.
This recipe is versatile, allowing you to use leftover beef or customize the vegetables according to your preference. Packed with protein and fiber, Beef Barley Soup is not only delicious but also a wholesome option for any meal.
Ingredients
1 pound beef stew meat (cut into bite-sized pieces)
1 cup pearl barley
1 onion, chopped
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
8 cups beef broth
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juices)
2 bay leaves
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
Brown the Beef:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef stew meat and season with salt and pepper. Brown the meat on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the beef and set aside.
Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same pot, add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Combine Ingredients:
Return the browned beef to the pot. Add the pearl barley, beef broth, diced tomatoes (with juices), bay leaves, and dried thyme. Stir to combine.
Simmer the Soup:
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender and the barley is cooked.
Adjust Seasoning:
Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Remove the bay leaves before serving.
Method for Storing
Storing Leftovers
Cool the Soup:
Allow the Beef Barley Soup to cool to room temperature before storing. This helps prevent condensation inside the container.
Use Airtight Containers:
Transfer the cooled soup into airtight containers. If you have a large portion, consider dividing it into smaller portions for easy reheating.
Label and Date:
Label each container with the date it was made to keep track of freshness.
Refrigeration
Storage Duration:
Store the beef barley soup in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Ensure the container is tightly sealed to maintain freshness.
Freezing
Freezing the Soup:
For longer storage, you can freeze the soup. Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. If using bags, remove as much air as possible before sealing, and lay them flat in the freezer for easier stacking.
Storage Duration:
Frozen beef barley soup can be stored for up to 3 months. While it remains safe to eat beyond this period, the quality may diminish.
Thawing and Reheating
Thawing:
When ready to enjoy, remove the soup from the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight. For quicker thawing, you can place the sealed bag in cold water for a few hours.
Reheating:
Reheat the soup on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, about 10-15 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions in a microwave-safe container for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Tips for Best Results
Avoid Overcooking Barley: If you plan to freeze the soup, consider slightly undercooking the barley, as it will continue to absorb liquid during storage.
Check for Freshness: Always check the soup for any signs of spoilage before consuming, especially if it has been stored for a while.