As the winter chill sets in, there’s nothing quite like a steaming bowl of hearty soup to warm you up from the inside out. And when it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the timeless appeal of beef and barley soup. This classic recipe combines tender chunks of beef, wholesome barley, and an array of vegetables in a rich, flavorful broth. It’s a one-pot wonder that’s perfect for cozy nights in or casual gatherings with friends and family. This recipe is perfect to make with leftovers from a pot-roast the day before. Although not traditionally included in a beef and barley soup, we also include a little bit of chopped cabbage to give the soup more texture and flavor.
This recipe is great to make because it incorporates a lot of items in most fridges.
Ingredients:
1. 1/2 white onion
2. 1 carrot sliced
3. 2 ribs of celery chopped
4. 1 Tbsp. of olive oil
5. 2 cups of pot roast meet or stew meat
6. salt and pepper to taste
7. 1/3 cup of barley
8. 1 garlic clove or 1 tsp minced garlic
9. 1 Tbsp. of Worcestershire sauce
10. 3 cups of beef broth
11. 1 package of beef gravy mix (Note. We used the beef drippings from our left-over pot roast so we did not use the gravy mix)
12. 2 cups of chopped cabbage (Optional)
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 30-40 minutes
Total time: 45 – 60 minutes
Directions:
1. in a small stockpot, heat olive oil and sauté onions, garlic and carrots.
2. Add the rest of the ingredients with the exception of the barley pearls.
3. In a separate pot, follow the directions to cook the barley and then drain the excess water. If you add the barley straight into the soup, the barley will absorb too much moisture. Cooking separately will ensure your soup stays consistent the following day.
4. After draining the barley pearls, add to the soup and cook on low for 15 minutes.
Conclusion: Beef and barley soup is a comforting and satisfying dish that’s perfect for chilly winter days. With its tender chunks of beef, wholesome barley, and flavorful broth, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. So, the next time you’re craving a bowl of something warm and comforting, give this classic recipe a try. You won’t be disappointed!