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Hearty Beef Barley Vegetable Soup: A Comforting Classic with a Tomato Twist

When the weather turns chilly or you simply crave something warm and satisfying, few dishes hit the spot like a hearty bowl of beef barley vegetable soup. This recipe elevates a classic comfort food with a vibrant tomato twist, balancing rich, savory beef, wholesome barley, and fresh garden vegetables. It’s a one-pot wonder that’s as nutritious as it is comforting, perfect for family dinners or meal prep for the week. Here’s how to make it step by step.

Ingredients

For this recipe, you will need:

• Beef and Broth:
  • 1 lb (450 g) beef stew meat, cut into bite-sized cubes
  • 6 cups beef broth (homemade or low-sodium store-bought)
  • 1 cup water (optional, to adjust consistency)
• Vegetables:
  • 2 medium carrots, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup green beans, chopped
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
  • 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
• Grains:
  • ½ cup pearl barley, rinsed
• Herbs and Spices:
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 2 bay leaves
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Optional: a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick
• Finishing Touches:
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Step-by-Step Method

Step 1: Prepare the Beef

1. Pat the beef cubes dry with paper towels. This ensures better browning.
2. In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the beef in batches to avoid overcrowding. Brown all sides, about 3–4 minutes per batch.
4. Remove the browned beef and set aside. The browned bits left in the pot are full of flavor and will enrich the soup.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

1. In the same pot, add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 4–5 minutes until softened.
2. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Sprinkle in dried thyme, oregano, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if using.

Step 3: Build the Soup Base

1. Return the browned beef to the pot.
2. Add the beef broth, diced tomatoes, and bay leaves. Stir to combine.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 30 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.

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