This warm and nourishing soup is packed with tender beef, wholesome barley, and hearty vegetables. It's the ultimate comfort food for chilly days, perfect for family dinners or meal prep!
Ingredients (Serves 6-8)
Beef Stew Meat: 1.5 lbs (680g), cut into 1-inch cubes
Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
Salt and Pepper: To taste
Onion: 1 large, chopped
Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
Carrots: 3 medium, peeled and sliced
Celery: 2 stalks, diced
Potatoes: 2 medium, peeled and cubed (optional)
Tomato Paste: 2 tablespoons
Beef Broth: 6 cups
Bay Leaf: 1
Thyme: 1 teaspoon (dried)
Barley: 3/4 cup, rinsed (pearl or hulled)
Fresh Parsley: For garnish
Instructions
1. Brown the Beef
Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
Season the beef with salt and pepper, then sear in batches until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pot, add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
