Description
The “Hearty Beef & Barley Delight” is a robust and comforting soup perfect for chilly days. This wholesome dish pairs tender chunks of chuck roast with hearty barley and a medley of vegetables, all simmered in a flavorful, herb-infused broth. Whether you’re seeking solace on a cold night or simply yearning for a nourishing meal, this soup is designed to soothe the soul and satisfy the appetite.
Ingredients
- ⅔ cup medium barley
- 6 cups low sodium beef broth
- 1 bay leaf
- 2 carrots, sliced into thin rounds
- 2 celery stalks, thinly sliced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 to 3 lbs chuck roast
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 3 cloves garlic, crushed
- 1 tbsp dried parsley
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ¼ tsp ground thyme
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 can corn, drained
Step-by-step Directions
Step 1: Sear the Beef
Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the beef and sear until each side is golden brown. Remove the beef from the pot and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté Vegetables
In the same pot, add the carrots, celery, and onion. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes or until the vegetables begin to soften.
Step 3: Add Herbs and Garlic
Stir in the crushed garlic, dried parsley, oregano, and thyme, cooking for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 4: Combine and Simmer
Add the beef broth, diced tomatoes, bay leaf, and the seared beef back into the pot. Bring to a simmer and cook covered for approximately 1.5 hours, or until the beef is tender.
Step 5: Introduce Barley and Corn
Add the barley and corn to the pot. Cover and continue to cook for 30 minutes.
Step 6: Final Cook and Serve
Remove the lid and let the soup simmer for another 15 minutes. Carefully remove the beef, trim any excess fat, and cut into bite-sized pieces. Return the beef to the pot, stir well, and serve hot.
Servings & Preparation Time
The recipe serves approximately 6 to 8 people. Preparation time is about 20 minutes, while total cooking time is around 2 hours 15 minutes, including the time required for simmering and tenderizing the beef.
Tips for Storage & Reheating
- Storage: Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be refrigerated for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Reheat on the stove over medium heat until hot. If reheating from frozen, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Conclusion
The Hearty Beef & Barley Delight is more than just a meal; it’s a warm embrace on a cold day. Filled with nutritious ingredients and layered with flavors, this soup is a perfect blend of comfort and satisfaction. Serve it alongside your favorite bread for dipping, and enjoy the heartwarming benefits of a home-cooked meal.