Hearty Beef Barley Soup Recipe

Ingredients

• 1.5 pounds stewing meat, cut into small pieces
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1-2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 cup white onion, finely diced
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 1/2 cup celery, chopped
• 1 large Russet potato, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch cubes
• 1 cup frozen vegetables (mixed)
• Fresh parsley, for garnish
• 2-3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 (15 ounce) can diced tomatoes
• 6-7 cups beef broth
• 2/3 cup barley

Instructions

1. 1

   Season the Beef: Generously season the stewing meat with salt and pepper to enhance the beef’s natural flavor before cooking.

2. 2

   Brown the Beef and Onions: Heat olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add the beef and diced white onion, cooking until the beef is browned on all sides and the onions are softened, forming a flavorful base for the soup.

3. 3

   Add Garlic and Italian Seasoning: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant and slightly browned. Sprinkle in Italian seasoning and cook for another 30 seconds to release the herbs’ aroma.

4. 4

   Deglaze the Pot: Pour a small amount of beef broth into the pot to deglaze, scraping up any browned bits stuck to the bottom, which adds depth and flavor.

5. 5

   Add Remaining Liquids and Worcestershire: Pour in the remaining beef broth, diced tomatoes with their juices, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir everything together to combine.

6. 6

   Simmer the Beef: Bring the mixture to a low simmer, reduce heat to low, cover, and let cook for 20 minutes to start tenderizing the beef.

7. 7

   Add Barley: Stir in the barley evenly throughout the soup so it can absorb flavors and begin softening.

8. 8

   Add Potatoes and Celery: Mix in the cubed potatoes and chopped celery, then cook uncovered for another 15 minutes until potatoes are tender.

9. 9

   Add Frozen Vegetables: Stir in the frozen mixed vegetables and continue cooking for 10 minutes more, allowing barley and vegetables to become fully tender.

10. 10

    Adjust Consistency and Seasoning: If the soup is too thick, add additional beef broth as needed. Taste and adjust salt and pepper according to preference.

11. 11

    Serve: Ladle the hearty soup into bowls, garnish with freshly chopped parsley, and serve hot for a wholesome, satisfying meal.