Beef Barley Hearty Soup (Printer-Friendly Version)
Rich beef and barley simmered with fresh vegetables for a warm and filling meal.
# Ingredients Needed:
→ Beef
01 -
1 pound stewing beef
02 -
1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
03 -
1 teaspoon ground black pepper (adjust to taste)
04 -
½ cup all-purpose flour
05 -
2 tablespoons olive oil (add more if needed)
→ Vegetables
06 -
1 large onion, chopped
07 -
1 large carrot, peeled and chopped
08 -
2 celery stalks, cleaned and chopped
09 -
3 cloves garlic, minced
→ Flavorings
10 -
1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped or 1 teaspoon dried oregano
11 -
3 tablespoons tomato paste
→ Liquids
12 -
4 cups low-sodium beef broth
13 -
3 cups water
→ Grains
14 -
¾ cup pearl barley
→ Garnish
15 -
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
# Step-by-Step Directions:
01 -
Season stewing beef with salt and pepper. Place beef in a resealable plastic bag and add flour. Seal the bag and shake well until all pieces are evenly coated. Alternatively, toss in a mixing bowl.
02 -
Heat olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add coated beef pieces in batches to avoid overcrowding. Brown each side for about 3 minutes until a crust forms. Remove beef and set aside.
03 -
In the same pot, add remaining oil if necessary. Sauté chopped onion, carrot, and celery for 5 minutes until softened, stirring occasionally.
04 -
Stir in minced garlic, oregano, and tomato paste. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in a portion of beef broth to deglaze the pot, scraping browned bits from the bottom.
05 -
Return browned beef to the pot. Add remaining beef broth and water. Season with additional salt and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium and cover. Simmer for 30 to 45 minutes until beef is tender.
06 -
Stir in pearl barley, cover, and continue simmering for 30 minutes or until barley is tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Add extra water if soup thickens too much.
07 -
Remove from heat. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley. Serve hot and enjoy.
# Helpful Hints:
01 -
Allow the soup to rest for 30 minutes off heat for flavors to meld for enhanced taste.
02 -
Brown beef thoroughly to develop deep, rich flavor.
03 -
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.