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Hearty Beef and Barley Soup Recipe

Hearty Beef and Barley Soup Recipe

4.8 from 21 reviews

This Hearty Beef and Barley Soup is a comforting and satisfying dish perfect for cold weather. Tender beef, hearty barley, and flavorful vegetables simmered in a savory broth make this soup a complete meal in a bowl.

Ingredients

Units Scale

For the soup:

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 pound beef stew meat (cut into small cubes)
  • 1 small onion (diced)
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 3 carrots (peeled and sliced)
  • 2 celery stalks (sliced)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 6 cups beef broth
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juice)
  • 3/4 cup pearl barley
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Brown the beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef and brown on all sides, about 5–7 minutes. Remove the beef and set aside.
  2. Cook the vegetables: In the same pot, add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook for 4–5 minutes until vegetables begin to soften.
  3. Add remaining ingredients: Return the beef to the pot and season with salt, pepper, thyme, oregano, and add the bay leaf. Stir in the beef broth, diced tomatoes with juice, and barley.
  4. Simmer: Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 45–60 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef is tender and the barley is cooked.
  5. Serve: Remove bay leaf before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.

Notes

  • This soup thickens as it sits—add extra broth or water when reheating if needed.
  • Can be made ahead and frozen for up to 3 months.

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