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Beef and Barley Soup with Roasted Carrots and Potatoes

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Ingredients

  1. 1 lb beef stew meat (cut into bite-sized pieces)
  2. 2 tbsp olive oil
  3. 1 medium onion (diced)
  4. 3 cloves garlic (minced)
  5. 2 medium carrots (peeled, chopped)
  6. 2 medium potatoes (diced)
  7. 3/4 cup pearl barley
  8. 6 cups beef broth
  9. 1 tsp dried thyme
  10. 1 tsp dried rosemary
  11. 2 bay leaves
  12. Salt and pepper (to taste)
  13. Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven: 400°F (200°C).
  2. Roast vegetables: Toss carrots and potatoes with 1 tbsp olive oil, salt and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, until tender and golden.
  3. Sear beef: Heat remaining 1 tbsp olive oil in a large pot over medium-high. Season beef with salt and pepper; sear until browned. Set aside.
  4. Cook aromatics: Sauté onion and garlic in the same pot until softened (3-4 minutes).
  5. Add barley and broth: Stir in barley, broth, thyme, rosemary and bay leaves. Bring to a boil.
  6. Simmer soup: Return beef to pot; reduce heat to low, cover and simmer (45-50 minutes) or until barley is tender and beef is cooked.
  7. Combine roasted vegetables: Stir in roasted carrots and potatoes; simmer (5-10 minutes) to meld flavors.
  8. Serve: Remove bay leaves; ladle into bowls and garnish with parsley (if desired).

Tips

  1. Deglaze pot with red wine after searing beef for deeper flavor.
  2. Use Yukon Gold potatoes for creamy texture.
  3. Store leftovers in refrigerator (up to 3 days); flavors enhance overnight.

Here are some potential FAQs for your beef stew recipe:

Cooking and Preparation

  1. Q: What cut of beef is best for stew?
    • A: Chuck or round cuts work well.
  2. Q: Can I use frozen vegetables?
    • A: Yes, but thaw and pat dry first.
  3. Q: How long does it take to prepare?
    • A: Approximately 30 minutes.
See also  This recipe is a hit at every family gathering - just have to keep my own family away until it's time to eat!

Ingredients

  1. Q: Can I substitute pearl barley with other types?
    • A: Yes, but cooking times may vary.
  2. Q: What’s the purpose of bay leaves?
    • A: They add depth to the broth; remove before serving.
  3. Q: Can I use low-sodium broth?
    • A: Yes, adjust seasoning accordingly.

Storage and Reheating

  1. Q: How long does the stew keep in the fridge?
    • A: Up to 3 days.
  2. Q: Can I freeze the stew?
    • A: Yes, for up to 3 months.
  3. Q: How do I reheat the stew?
    • A: Microwave or stovetop; add liquid if needed.

Variations

  1. Q: Can I add other vegetables?
    • A: Yes, carrots, potatoes, and onions are essentials, but feel free to experiment.
  2. Q: Can I make it spicy?
    • A: Add red pepper flakes or your favorite hot sauce.
  3. Q: Can I serve with crusty bread?
    • A: Absolutely! Perfect pairing.
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