Hearty Beef Barley Soup Recipe

Hearty Beef Barley Soup Recipe

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 3 lbs chuck roast, trimmed
• 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
• 2 celery stalks, thinly sliced
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 6 cups low-sodium beef broth
• 1 (14.5-ounce) can fire-roasted diced tomatoes
• 2 bay leaves
• 2/3 cup medium pearled barley
• 1 (14.5-ounce) can corn, drained
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Sear the Beef:
   • Heat vegetable oil in a large Dutch oven or stockpot over medium heat.
   • Add the chuck roast and sear on all sides until browned. Remove beef and set aside.
2. Cook the Vegetables:
   • In the same pot, add carrots, celery, and onion. Cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
   • Add garlic, parsley, oregano, and thyme, and cook for 1 minute, stirring to release their aroma.
3. Simmer the Soup Base:
   • Pour in beef broth and stir in the fire-roasted tomatoes.
   • Add the bay leaves and the seared beef back into the pot.
   • Lower the heat and let the soup simmer for about 1½ hours, or until the beef is tender enough to pull apart with a fork.
4. Add Barley and Corn:
   • Stir in the barley and corn, cover the pot, and cook for 30 minutes.
   • Remove the lid and simmer uncovered for another 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Shred and Return the Beef:
   • Take out the roast, trim off any fat or gristle, and shred or cut the meat into bite-sized pieces.
   • Return the beef to the pot, and stir well to combine.
6. Season and Serve:
   • Taste the soup and adjust with salt and freshly cracked black pepper.
   • Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips for the Best Soup

• Use chuck roast for flavor: Its marbling ensures tender, flavorful beef.
• Searing is key: This step adds depth to the soup’s flavor.
• Aesthetic appeal: Peel the carrots for a cleaner, more vibrant look.
• Mind the salt: Low-sodium beef broth gives you better control over the seasoning.
• Spice it up: Add freshly cracked pepper or a pinch of Cajun seasoning for an extra kick.
• Don’t overcook the barley: Barley should be tender but not mushy, so avoid prolonged simmering once added.

This beef barley soup is the perfect comfort food, hearty and full of rich flavors!