Beef & Barley Soup: A Hearty Classic for Comfort and Nutrition
Beef & Barley Soup is one of those timeless dishes that perfectly balances flavor, comfort, and nourishment. It’s a rustic, wholesome soup made with tender chunks of beef, pearl barley, and an aromatic blend of vegetables simmered slowly in a savory broth. This comforting meal is ideal for cold days or anytime you crave something hearty and satisfying. Let’s explore how to prepare this traditional soup step by step.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the soup:
- 1 ½ pounds (about 700g) beef chuck or stew meat, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 cup pearl barley, rinsed
- 8 cups beef broth (or a mix of broth and water)
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste (optional, for deeper flavor)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (optional but adds richness)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Method
Step 1: Prepare and Brown the Beef
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
Add the beef cubes in small batches—avoid overcrowding the pot, as that will cause the meat to steam instead of sear. Brown the beef on all sides to develop a rich, deep flavor. This browning step, known as the Maillard reaction, creates a foundation of savory taste for your soup.
Once browned, transfer the beef to a plate and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In the same pot, reduce the heat slightly and add a little more oil if needed.
Add the chopped onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until it turns translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant. This combination infuses the broth with subtle sweetness and depth.
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