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The magic of Hearty Homestyle Beef & Barley Soup stems from its carefully selected ingredients, each contributing to the overall flavor profile and texture of the dish. Let’s take a closer look at the key components that make this soup a standout.

Homestyle Beef & Barley Soup

Warm up your chilly nights with a comforting bowl of Hearty Homestyle Beef & Barley Soup. This classic recipe combines tender beef, nutritious barley, and a medley of vegetables, simmered to perfection for a dish that nourishes both body and soul. With its rich flavors and wholesome ingredients, it's perfect for family gatherings or cozy evenings at home. Discover how simple it is to create this beloved soup and invite your loved ones to share in the warmth.

Ingredients
  

1 lb (450g) beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 medium onion, chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

2 medium carrots, diced

2 stalks celery, diced

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1 teaspoon dried rosemary

8 cups low-sodium beef broth

1 cup pearl barley, rinsed under cold water

1 bay leaf

Salt and black pepper, to taste

1 cup frozen peas (optional)

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Brown the Beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the diced beef chuck, making sure to season it generously with salt and black pepper. Sear the beef on all sides until it develops a rich brown crust, about 5 to 7 minutes in total. After browning, remove the beef from the pot and set it aside on a plate.

    Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pot, without wiping it clean, add the chopped onion, diced carrots, and diced celery. Sauté the mixture for about 5 minutes or until the vegetables begin to soften and the onions become translucent. Next, stir in the minced garlic, dried thyme, and dried rosemary. Cook for an additional minute until the aromatic herbs release their fragrance.

      Combine Ingredients: Reintroduce the browned beef to the pot, incorporating it back into the mixture. Pour in the low-sodium beef broth, add the rinsed pearl barley, and toss in the bay leaf. Stir everything together, then bring the mixture to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot with a lid, and allow it to simmer gently for about 1 hour, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

        Add Peas: After the hour has passed, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and black pepper if necessary. If desired, stir in the frozen peas and let the soup simmer uncovered for an additional 10 minutes. This will ensure the peas are heated through and that the barley is tender and cooked perfectly.

          Serve: Before serving, remember to remove and discard the bay leaf. Ladle the hearty soup into warm bowls and finish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness. Enjoy your delicious and wholesome bowl of homestyle beef and barley soup!

            Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes | Servings: 6

              - Presentation Tips: Serve the soup with crusty bread on the side for dipping, and consider adding a slice of lemon on the plate for a zesty contrast to the rich flavors of the soup.