This soup is truly a magical elixir that can cure whatever ails you! From its hearty combination of vegetables, barley, and beef to the delightful blend of flavors that come together, this incredible dish will warm your heart and soul. The best part? It’s surprisingly quick and easy to make, making it a go-to recipe even on busy days.
At first, I admit I felt a little intimidated by the lengthy ingredient list, but my worries quickly dissipated when I realized how simple the preparation was. Just toss everything into the pot, and voilà! Even my son eagerly joined in, enthusiastically helping to dump the ingredients, creating fun family moments in the kitchen.
The versatility of this soup knows no bounds. Not only does it freeze well, making it a practical option for batch cooking and meal prepping, but its flavorful broth serves as the perfect complement for dunking rolls or enjoying with a crusty baguette. It’s a soup for all seasons! During the colder months, it’s wonderfully hearty and warming, while in the warmer months, it transforms into a broth-based delight, loaded with an abundance of fresh and vibrant vegetables.
This comforting soup has truly become a year-round staple in my household. Its ability to soothe, nourish, and bring joy is unmatched, making it a must-have in every home cook’s repertoire. Whether you choose to prepare it on the stovetop or opt for the convenience of a Crockpot, the Notes section has you covered, ensuring a seamless and satisfying cooking experience.
So, if you’re looking for a soup that not only delights your taste buds but also comforts your soul, look no further. This delightful concoction is an all-year-round comfort soup that promises to leave you feeling nourished, content, and grateful for the joy of good food and cherished family moments. Indulge in this heartwarming treat and savor every spoonful of comfort, no matter the season.
Ingredients
2 cups cooked flank steak or chuck steak – cut in 1-inch pieces
6 cups reduced sodium beef broth
1 onion chopped
1 package beef gravy mix
2 Tbsp. red wine (optional, but really makes the broth exceptional)
2 carrots sliced
salt & pepper to taste
2 Tbsp. fresh parsley or 2 tsp. dried
2/3 cup pearl barley
1 garlic clove minced
1 can petite diced tomatoes 14-15 oz, undrained
1 bay leaf
1/2 green pepper diced
1 stalk celery sliced
1/4 tsp. dried thyme
1 Tbsp. Worcestershire sauce
1 Tbsp. olive oil
Directions
In a large stock pot, heat up some olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the steak, and give it a good sear on all sides. Toss in the onions and garlic, cooking until they become soft and fragrant.
Now, introduce the rest of the ingredients to the pot, letting the mixture come to a lively boil. Lower the heat, cover it up, and let it simmer for approximately 40-50 minutes or until the barley reaches the desired tenderness.
Before serving, don’t forget to fish out the bay leaf. Now, your hearty and flavorful dish is ready to be enjoyed!
Notes
* If the soup thickens too much while cooling, add broth to reach desired consistency.
* If you substitute ground beef for the steak, be sure to drain the fat after browning the meat.
* A crusty baguette dipped in the broth is really delicious; buttered biscuits or dinner rolls go perfectly as well.
* For variety, you can use other vegetables. I like to add peas and green beans!
* If you prefer to use your Crockpot, after you sear the steak and cook the onions, put those in the Crockpot along with all the other ingredients and cook for either 4 hours on high, or 8 hours on low.
* The barley can be substituted with couscous for a different twist.
* This soup can be frozen for up to 6 months (yay!)
* I use pearl barley which usually takes 25-30 minutes to cook – I suggest you stick with it. If you use hulled barley the cook time is 40-50 minutes which is significantly longer.
Conclusion:
The Best Ever Beef and Barley Soup is a true testament to the art of comfort cooking. This hearty and flavorful soup has proven itself as a standout dish, offering a perfect blend of tender beef, wholesome vegetables, and hearty barley. Each spoonful is a taste sensation that warms the soul and brings immense satisfaction.
Initially, I was drawn to the recipe’s promise of a rich and fulfilling soup, but I had reservations about the complexity of preparation. However, my concerns were quickly dispelled as I discovered the ease with which this soup comes together. The simple step of tossing the ingredients into the pot allowed me to enjoy the cooking process, and even my family members pitched in to create fond memories during meal preparation.
The beauty of this soup lies not only in its incredible taste but also in its adaptability to various seasons. Whether served during the cold winter months as a hearty and comforting meal or in the warmer seasons as a light and vegetable-rich broth, it has become a versatile staple in my culinary repertoire.
One of the most appealing aspects of this soup is its convenience. It freezes exceptionally well, allowing for future enjoyment and making it an ideal option for busy days or meal planning. The sumptuous broth is a delightful accompaniment for dunking rolls or enjoying with crusty baguettes, enhancing the overall dining experience.
As the fragrance of this soup permeates my kitchen, it evokes feelings of warmth, nourishment, and contentment. The Best Ever Beef and Barley Soup has indeed earned its place as a comfort food favorite, a dish that brings comfort, joy, and a sense of togetherness. It is a recipe worth treasuring, as it has the power to soothe not just hunger but also the soul. So, let the aroma beckon you, and indulge in this delightful creation, savoring every spoonful of its unparalleled goodness.