Ultimate Beef and Barley Soup Recipe for Cozy Nights

Beef and barley soup is the ultimate cozy dish that wraps you in warmth like a favorite blanket on a chilly evening. Imagine the rich, savory aroma wafting through your kitchen as tender chunks of beef mingle with hearty barley and vibrant vegetables, simmering away into a bowl of comfort.

This soup isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience that brings back memories of family gatherings, where laughter and storytelling flow as freely as this delicious broth. Perfect for cold nights or when you simply need a hug in a bowl, beef and barley soup promises to be a flavor adventure that warms not just your body but your soul.

Family still talks about the first time I made this beef and barley soup; they practically licked their bowls clean.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Beef Chuck Roast: Look for well-marbled cuts for maximum tenderness and flavor during cooking.

• Barley: Opt for pearl barley for its chewy texture that holds up well in soups.

• Carrots: Fresh carrots add natural sweetness; choose firm ones for the best results.

• Celery: Crisp celery contributes freshness; make sure it’s bright green with no blemishes.

• Onion: A yellow onion works great here, bringing depth of flavor to the base.

• Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves are essential; they add aromatic richness to the soup.

• Beef Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control seasoning while enhancing the meaty flavor.

• Dried Thyme: This herb adds an earthy note; feel free to substitute with fresh if you have it.

• Bay Leaves: Don’t skip these; they infuse the soup with aromatic goodness while it simmers.

• Salt and Pepper: Simple yet essential seasonings that elevate all the flavors in this dish.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Sear the Beef: Start by cutting your beef chuck roast into bite-sized pieces. Heat a large pot over medium-high heat and add some oil. Once sizzling hot, brown the beef until it’s golden on all sides—this step builds incredible flavor.

Add Your Aromatics: Toss in diced onions, minced garlic, chopped carrots, and celery into the pot. Sauté until the vegetables soften—about five minutes—releasing their sweet aromas into your kitchen.

Add Barley and Broth: Stir in rinsed pearl barley along with beef broth and water until everything is submerged. Add dried thyme and bay leaves for that comforting flavor explosion.

Let It Simmer Away!: Bring your concoction to a gentle boil before reducing the heat to low. Cover it up and let it simmer for about an hour or until the beef is tender—the magic happens here!

Taste Test Time!: Near the end of cooking, taste your masterpiece! Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed; remember, you want every spoonful bursting with flavor.

Serve It Up!: Ladle generous portions into bowls. For garnish, consider fresh parsley or a sprinkle of grated cheese if you’re feeling fancy—enjoy every drop!

Now that you’ve got all these steps covered, get ready to savor every bite of your homemade beef and barley soup! It’s truly one for the memory books!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by browning the beef to deepen the flavor, then sauté your vegetables before adding broth and barley for perfect results.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to add your favorite veggies like carrots or peas, swap beef for turkey, or throw in some herbs for an extra flavor kick.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat on the stove over medium heat until warmed through.

Cooking beef and barley soup reminds me of my grandmother’s kitchen, where laughter mixed with aromas that made everyone feel at home.

FAQ

Can I use other grains instead of barley?

Yes, quinoa or rice can be great substitutes for barley in this recipe.

How long does it take to cook beef and barley soup?

This soup generally takes about two hours from start to finish for optimal flavors.

Is beef and barley soup healthy?

Absolutely! It’s packed with protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals that nourish your body.

Print

Cozy Beef and Barley Soup

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Indulge in the warmth of homemade Beef and Barley Soup, a hearty dish that combines tender beef, chewy barley, and fresh vegetables in a savory broth. Perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings, this soup not only comforts but also fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas. Easy to prepare, it’s the ultimate hug in a bowl that promises to become a family favorite.

• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb beef chuck roast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup pearl barley, rinsed
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 2 stalks celery, diced
• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 6 cups low-sodium beef broth
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 2 bay leaves
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Sear the beef chuck pieces until browned on all sides.
2. Add onions, garlic, carrots, and celery; sauté for about five minutes until softened.
3. Stir in rinsed pearl barley and add beef broth. Toss in thyme and bay leaves.
4. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low and cover. Simmer for about one hour or until beef is tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

• Author: James
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 60 minutes
• Category: Soup
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl (approx. 1.5 cups)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 550mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 7g
• Protein: 22g
• Cholesterol: 70mg