Beef Barley Soup Recipe with Slow Cooker Method

Beef Barley Soup Recipe with Slow Cooker Method: A Comforting Classic for Any Season

Few dishes can match the soul-warming comfort of a hearty bowl of Beef Barley Soup. This timeless classic combines tender chunks of beef, wholesome vegetables, and nutty pearl barley simmered to perfection in a savory broth. Using a slow cooker elevates the experience—allowing the flavors to deepen and meld beautifully while saving you time and effort. Whether you’re preparing it for a cozy weeknight meal or storing portions for future lunches, this slow-cooked wonder is both nourishing and delicious.

🌿 Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless cooking: The slow cooker does all the work for you.
• Rich, deep flavor: Long, gentle cooking coaxes out incredible taste.
• Nutritious and filling: Packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins.
• Perfect for make-ahead meals: Tastes even better the next day!

🥩 Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s everything to gather before you start:

• 1 ½ pounds (700 g) beef stew meat, cut into bite-sized cubes
• 1 cup pearl barley, rinsed and drained
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (optional but adds great flavor)
• 8 cups beef broth (preferably low sodium)
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter, for browning

🍲 Step-by-Step Method

Step 1: Brown the Beef for Depth of Flavor

While this step is optional, it makes a big difference.

1. Heat olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef cubes in batches (avoid overcrowding).
3. Sear until browned on all sides—about 4–5 minutes per batch.
4. Transfer the browned beef to your slow cooker.

Browning caramelizes the surface of the meat, creating rich, savory undertones that enhance the entire soup.

Step 2: Add Aromatics and Vegetables

Layer the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, celery, and mushrooms over the beef in the slow cooker. These vegetables form the flavorful base of your soup, releasing their sweetness as they cook slowly.

Step 3: Incorporate Barley and Seasonings

Add the rinsed pearl barley on top of the vegetables. Sprinkle in the thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Stir lightly to distribute everything evenly.

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