Allrecipes Recipe 13023 Beef Barley Vegetable Soup Guide

There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm bowl of soup on a chilly day, and the Allrecipes Recipe 13023 Beef Barley Vegetable Soup is the perfect example. This classic soup combines tender beef, wholesome barley, and an array of fresh vegetables to create a hearty and nutritious meal that satisfies both body and soul.

Whether you’re looking for a family dinner idea or a make-ahead lunch, this recipe ticks all the boxes. Its rich flavors develop beautifully as it simmers, making it a fantastic dish to prepare in advance or enjoy right away.

Plus, it’s incredibly versatile — you can customize the veggies and seasonings to suit your taste, making it a staple to keep in your cooking rotation.

In this blog post, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make this delicious soup from scratch, including why it’s so loved, detailed ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and some handy tips to put your own twist on it.

Ready to dive into this cozy classic? Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Beef Barley Vegetable Soup is a crowd-pleaser for many reasons. First, it offers a perfect balance of protein, fiber, and vitamins, making it a well-rounded, nutritious meal.

The beef provides rich flavor and satisfying heartiness, while the barley adds a pleasantly chewy texture and a boost of whole grain goodness. The medley of fresh vegetables ensures each spoonful is bursting with color and nutrients.

Additionally, the soup is easy to make and stores beautifully, so it’s ideal for meal prepping. It freezes well too, making it a convenient option for busy weeks.

The recipe’s versatility means you can swap in your favorite veggies or adjust the seasoning to your liking. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is straightforward and rewarding.

Plus, it’s a great way to warm up during colder seasons or whenever you crave a wholesome comforting meal.

Ingredients

• 1 pound beef stew meat, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup pearl barley, rinsed
• 3 medium carrots, peeled and diced
• 2 stalks celery, diced
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
• 6 cups beef broth (low sodium preferred)
• 2 cups water
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
• Optional: 1 cup chopped green beans or peas for extra veggies

Equipment

• Large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board and sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or heat-resistant spatula
• Ladle for serving
• Optional: Slow cooker (if adapting recipe)

Instructions

1. Prepare the beef: Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the beef stew meat and brown on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Browning the meat seals in the flavor and adds depth to the soup.
2. Sauté the aromatics: Remove the browned beef and set aside. In the same pot, add the chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Cook until the vegetables soften, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add liquids and seasonings: Return the beef to the pot. Pour in the beef broth and water, then add the diced tomatoes, dried thyme, parsley, and bay leaf. Stir to combine everything.
4. Simmer the soup: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for about 45 minutes, allowing the beef to become tender and the flavors to meld.
5. Add barley and optional vegetables: Stir in the rinsed pearl barley and any additional vegetables like green beans or peas. Continue to simmer uncovered for another 30-40 minutes, or until the barley is tender and the soup has thickened to your liking.
6. Season and serve: Remove the bay leaf. Taste the soup and add salt and pepper as needed. Give the soup a good stir and serve hot.

Tips & Variations

“For an even richer taste, try searing the beef in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, which ensures proper browning.”

If you want to cut down on prep time, you can use pre-cut stew meat or even leftover cooked beef. For a lighter version, substitute the beef broth with vegetable broth and omit the meat, turning this into a delicious vegetarian barley vegetable soup.

Feel free to swap barley for other grains like farro or brown rice if you prefer. Adding a splash of red wine when deglazing the pan after browning the beef adds complexity to the broth.

For extra flavor, garnish the finished soup with fresh chopped parsley or a squeeze of lemon juice.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Serve this soup with a crusty whole-grain bread or garlic toast for a satisfying meal. A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette balances the hearty soup nicely.

For an extra touch, top your bowl with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan or a dollop of sour cream if you like.

This soup also pairs beautifully with classic comfort sides like mashed potatoes or roasted root vegetables. If you’re looking for more healthy and hearty meal ideas, check out our A to Z Vegetarian Recipes for Every Meal and Occasion or try out some Ancient Grains Vegetarian Recipes for Healthy Delicious Meals.

Conclusion

The Allrecipes Beef Barley Vegetable Soup is truly a timeless classic that brings warmth and nutrition to your table. Its hearty combination of tender beef, wholesome barley, and fresh vegetables makes it a perfect dish for any occasion, especially during the colder months.

The recipe is forgiving and adaptable, allowing you to make it your own by adding your favorite vegetables or spices.

Whether you serve it for a cozy family dinner or prepare it in bulk for weekday lunches, this soup is sure to become a reliable comfort food favorite. Don’t hesitate to experiment with some of the tips and variations mentioned above to make it uniquely yours.

And if you love soups, you might want to explore more recipes like the Best Vegetarian Recipes No Dairy for Delicious Meals or the Vegan Fall Soup Recipes To Warm Your Cozy Evenings to keep your menu exciting all year round.

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