Beef and Barley Soup

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Warm up on chilly days with a comforting bowl of Beef and Barley Soup, a hearty and nutritious dish that’s sure to satisfy your cravings. Tender chunks of beef, hearty barley, and wholesome vegetables simmered together in a flavorful broth, creating a deliciously comforting soup that’s perfect for lunch or dinner. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, this classic beef and barley soup recipe is a must-have in your culinary repertoire.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb (450g) beef stew meat, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup pearl barley
• 6 cups beef broth
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Brown the Beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the beef stew meat and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the beef from the pot and set aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pot, add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5-6 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Simmer the Soup: Return the browned beef to the pot. Add the pearl barley, beef broth, diced tomatoes (with their juices), bay leaves, and dried thyme. Season with salt and black pepper, to taste. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 1 to 1 1/2 hours, or until the beef is tender and the barley is cooked through.
4. Adjust Seasoning: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning, adding more salt and pepper if necessary.
5. Serve: Ladle the Beef and Barley Soup into bowls. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

Warm your soul with a steaming bowl of Beef and Barley Soup, a classic comfort food that’s perfect for chilly days and cozy nights at home. Delight in the hearty flavors and wholesome ingredients of this comforting soup recipe.