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Beef & Barley Soup

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Hearty Beef & Barley Soup in a Crock Pot

Introduction

There’s nothing quite like a comforting bowl of Beef & Barley Soup to warm you up on a chilly day. This crock pot recipe is perfect for those who love a rich, hearty meal with minimal effort. The combination of tender beef, nutritious vegetables, and wholesome barley creates a flavorful and filling soup that is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re preparing this for a cozy dinner or meal prepping for the week, this Beef & Barley Soup is a must-try.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound boneless chuck roast, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 1/2 cups carrots, cut thin
  • 1 1/2 cups celery, thinly sliced
  • 2/3 cup onion, chopped
  • 10-12 mushrooms, sliced
  • 2 tablespoons beef base (a concentrated beef stock that is different from beef broth)
  • 8-10 cups water
  • 1 or 2 large bay leaves
  • 1 cup uncooked pearl barley
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon pepper
  • 1 tablespoon garlic, minced

Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Beef

  1. Heat Skillet: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the pieces of chuck roast until they are nicely browned on all sides, stirring frequently to ensure even cooking.
  2. Transfer to Crock Pot: Once browned, remove the beef from the skillet and place it in the crock pot.

Step 2: Add Vegetables and Base

  1. Combine Ingredients: Add the carrots, celery, onion, and mushrooms to the crock pot. These vegetables will add depth and flavor to the soup.
  2. Add Beef Base and Water: Stir in the beef base, ensuring it dissolves well in the 8-10 cups of water. This will form the rich broth of the soup.
  3. Add Garlic and Bay Leaf: Mix in the minced garlic and add the bay leaf for additional flavor.

Step 3: Cook the Soup

  1. Initial Cooking: Cook the soup on high heat for 2 hours. This allows the flavors to meld together and the vegetables to start softening.
  2. Add Barley: After 2 hours, add the uncooked pearl barley to the crock pot.
  3. Continue Cooking: Turn the heat to low and continue to cook until the vegetables and beef are tender, which usually takes an additional 1-2 hours.

Step 4: Final Seasoning

  1. Season: Once the soup is done cooking, stir in the salt and pepper to taste.
  2. Remove Bay Leaf: Remove and discard the bay leaf before serving.
See also  Orange Loaf Cake

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

  1. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy it hot. This soup pairs wonderfully with a slice of crusty bread or a fresh green salad.

Tips for the Best Beef & Barley Soup

  • Browning the Beef: Browning the beef before adding it to the crock pot enhances the flavor of the soup, giving it a richer taste.
  • Vegetable Prep: Cut the vegetables into uniform sizes to ensure even cooking. Thin slices will cook faster and more evenly.
  • Beef Base vs. Beef Broth: Using a beef base instead of beef broth creates a more concentrated flavor. If you can’t find beef base, you can substitute it with beef bouillon or a highly concentrated beef broth.
  • Barley Texture: Pearl barley adds a chewy texture to the soup. For a different texture, you can use quick-cooking barley, but adjust the cooking time accordingly.
  • Leftovers: This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, this Beef & Barley Soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors develop further, making it even more delicious.

Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, you can freeze this soup. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Can I use a different type of meat?

Absolutely! You can use other cuts of beef like stew meat or even ground beef. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

What can I substitute for barley?

If you’re looking for a barley substitute, you can use farro, quinoa, or rice. Each will give a different texture and flavor to the soup.

Can I add more vegetables?

Yes, feel free to add other vegetables like potatoes, peas, or corn to make the soup heartier and more nutritious.

How can I make this soup gluten-free?

To make this soup gluten-free, substitute the pearl barley with a gluten-free grain such as quinoa or rice.

Enjoy your comforting bowl of Beef & Barley Soup!

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