Hearty Beef and Barley Soup

a comforting, protein-packed soup featuring tender beef, hearty barley, and flavorful vegetables. This warming dish is perfect for cozy evenings.

Ingredients

1 lb beef stew meat, cut into bite-sized cubes

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 medium onion, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

2 medium carrots, diced

2 celery stalks, diced

1 cup pearl barley, rinsed

6 cups beef broth

1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1 teaspoon dried rosemary

1 bay leaf

Salt and pepper, to taste

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

1. Brown the Beef

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.

Season the beef with salt and pepper, then add it to the pot. Brown on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the beef and set aside.

2. Sauté Vegetables

In the same pot, add the onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5-6 minutes until softened.

Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

3. Combine Ingredients

Return the beef to the pot. Stir in the barley, beef broth, diced tomatoes (with their juices), thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf.

4. Simmer the Soup

Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 45-50 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef is tender and the barley is fully cooked.

5. Adjust Seasoning and Serve

Remove the bay leaf. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley.

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 1 hour

Servings: 6

Calories: Approximately 300 per serving

This hearty and flavorful soup is perfect for meal prep or feeding a crowd. Serve with a side of crusty bread for a complete meal!