Hearty Beef and Barley Soup

Name: Hearty Beef and Barley Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h 30 min
Total time: 1 h 45 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound beef chuck, cut into 1-inch pieces; 1 cup pearl barley; 4 cups beef broth; 2 cups water; 1 onion, chopped; 3 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 bay leaf; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil

Highlighted under: Cozy Comfort Meals

I love making soup during the colder months, and this Hearty Beef and Barley Soup has become a family favorite. The combination of tender beef, wholesome barley, and vibrant vegetables creates a dish that warms you from the inside out. What sets this recipe apart is the rich, savory broth that slowly simmers to extract all the flavors. I often prepare a big batch to enjoy throughout the week; it’s incredibly satisfying on chilly nights and perfect for meal prepping.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-01-20T12:26:27.964Z

When I first attempted this recipe, I was pleasantly surprised by how easy it was to prepare. I focused on browning the beef well, as it adds depth of flavor to the soup. My partner helped by chopping the vegetables while I prepped the barley. The secret to a hearty broth is allowing it to simmer long enough for the flavors to blend beautifully; I let it cook for about 90 minutes, which makes all the difference.

One of my favorite things about this soup is how versatile it is. I often toss in whatever veggies I have on hand, from carrots to green beans. The barley gives it a delightful texture, and I love the way it thickens the broth slightly. This soup not only satisfies my hunger but also brings the family together, especially on those brisk fall evenings.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich and savory broth filled with wholesome ingredients
Tender beef that melts in your mouth with every bite
Perfectly cooked barley adds unique texture and flavor

      

Understanding the Role of Barley

Barley is not just a filler in this soup; its unique texture enhances the overall experience. When cooked, pearl barley becomes tender with a slightly chewy bite, contrasting beautifully with the melt-in-your-mouth quality of the beef. It's important to choose pearl barley for this recipe, as it cooks faster than hulled barley and blends seamlessly into the soup, thickening it slightly and contributing a subtle nuttiness.

In terms of nutrition, barley is packed with fiber and essential nutrients, making this soup not only hearty but also healthy. If you're looking for a gluten-free option, you can substitute barley with quinoa or farro, although the cooking times will vary slightly. Be sure to adjust the liquid accordingly for these swaps to maintain the perfect consistency.

Perfecting Your Simmer

Simmering is where the magic happens, allowing flavors to meld and develop. It's crucial to keep the heat low during this process; a gentle simmer produces a clearer broth and ensures the ingredients cook evenly without becoming mushy. You'll want to see small bubbles forming at the surface, not a rolling boil. This typically takes about 90 minutes and results in a depth of flavor that a quick-cook method simply won’t achieve.

Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent anything from sticking to the bottom of the pot, especially as the soup thickens. If you notice it getting too thick for your liking, simply add a bit more water or broth to reach your desired consistency. This is also the time to check the tenderness of your beef—if it isn't fork-tender, continue to simmer until it is.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you begin:

Ingredients

1 pound beef chuck, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 cup pearl barley
4 cups beef broth
2 cups water
1 onion, chopped
3 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 bay leaf
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil

Make sure all ingredients are prepped before starting.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your hearty soup:

Brown the Beef

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef chunks and brown on all sides. This should take about 5-7 minutes.

Sauté the Vegetables

Once the beef is browned, add the onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.

Add the Barley and Broth

Stir in the garlic, thyme, and barley, followed by the beef broth and water. Bring the mixture to a boil.

Simmer the Soup

Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, add the bay leaf, and cover. Allow the soup to simmer for about 90 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Season and Serve

After simmering, remove the bay leaf. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

Enjoy your delicious hearty beef and barley soup!

Pro Tips

For extra depth of flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine while sautéing the vegetables. You can also switch up the vegetables based on your preference or seasonal availability. This soup is perfect for freezing, so make a double batch for later enjoyment!

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Hearty Beef and Barley Soup is an excellent candidate for meal prep. You can make a big batch and store it in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze individual portions for up to 3 months. To freeze, allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. Leave a little space at the top, as the soup will expand when frozen. For reheating, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, and then warm it on the stove over low heat until heated through.

If you plan to store leftovers, consider slightly undercooking the barley to maintain its texture upon reheating. When frozen and reheated, barley can become overly soft, so adjusting your cooking time can help prevent that from happening.

Serving Suggestions

This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread or warm rolls for a comforting meal. A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds a burst of color but also brings a fresh flavor to the dish. For those who enjoy a little heat, a dash of red pepper flakes can elevate this hearty soup even further.

You might also consider rounding out the meal by serving this soup with a side salad, like a simple mixed greens salad tossed with a light vinaigrette. The acidity from the dressing can balance the richness of the soup, creating a harmonious dining experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other grains instead of barley?

Yes, you can substitute barley with quinoa or farro; just adjust the cooking time as necessary.

→ How long does this soup last in the fridge?

This soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, and it often tastes even better the next day.

→ Is this soup suitable for freezing?

Absolutely! This soup freezes well. Just ensure to let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Definitely! Feel free to add any of your favorite vegetables like potatoes, green beans, or peas to enhance the soup.