Warm and comforting, this Best Ever Beef Barley Soup is the ultimate dish for chilly days and cozy evenings.
Packed with tender pieces of beef, hearty vegetables, and nutritious pearl barley, this soup is not only satisfying but also easy to prepare in a crockpot.
The combination of flavors melds beautifully as it cooks, creating a rich and savory broth that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Perfect for family dinners or meal prep, this soup brings warmth and nourishment to your table.
INGREDIENTS :
1 pound boneless chuck roast trimmed and cut into 1/2-inch pieces
1 cup uncooked pearl barley
1 1/2 cups carrots thinly sliced
1 (14.5 oz) can kernel corn, drained
1 1/2 cups celery thinly sliced
2/3 cup onion chopped
1 package pre-sliced mushrooms 8-ounce
2 tbs beef base (this is different than beef broth it is a base that makes beef broth)
8-10 cups water
1 large bay leaf
DIRECTIONS :
Brown beef in non-stick fry pan until browned, stirring frequently.
Remove beef from pan and place in crockpot, Add carrot, corn, celery, onion, and mushrooms, beef base, water, garlic and bay leaf.
Cook on high heat for one hour, add pearl barley then turn down to low and cook till vegetables and beef are tender.
Stir in salt and pepper.
Discard bay leaf.
For a delightful twist on your Best Ever Beef Barley Soup, consider adding or substituting vegetables like peas, green beans, or potatoes for added flavor and nutrition.
Fresh herbs such as thyme or rosemary can elevate the taste, while a pinch of red pepper flakes can introduce a subtle kick. You might also swap pearl barley for grains like farro, quinoa, or brown rice for a different texture.
Remember to take the time to brown the beef well for richer flavor, and adjust cooking times based on your crockpot’s efficiency to ensure tender beef and perfectly cooked barley.
This soup freezes beautifully, so let it cool completely before storing in airtight containers, and consume within three months.
If you prefer a thicker consistency, you can mash some of the cooked barley or add a cornstarch slurry towards the end of cooking.
These variations and tips will help you create a customized and delicious soup each time!
To store your Best Ever Beef Barley Soup, allow it to cool completely after cooking.
Transfer the soup to airtight containers, ensuring that you leave some space at the top, as it may expand when frozen.
It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
For longer storage, freeze the soup in individual portions or larger containers; it will keep well for up to 3 months.
When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw the soup overnight in the refrigerator or use the microwave for a quicker option.
Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.