Description
The “Hearty Beef and Barley Delight” is a robust and nourishing stew that marvelously combines tender beef, wholesome barley, and a mix of hearty vegetables. Ideal for chilly evenings, this slow-cooked recipe ensures a comforting meal that warms the heart and fills the stomach. With its straightforward preparation and slow cooker convenience, it’s a perfect dish for both busy weeknights and relaxing weekends.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs (908 g) beef stew meat or soup bones
- 3 tsp (12 g) kosher salt, divided
- 2 tsp ground black pepper, divided
- 2 tbsp (30 ml) olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 stalks celery, chopped
- 2 large carrots, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch (1-cm) chunks
- 2 tsp (6 g) dried parsley
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 2 bay leaves
- 2 tbsp (30 ml) Worcestershire sauce
- 4 cups (480 ml) beef broth
- 3/4 cup (150 g) pearled barley
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Step-by-step Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Beef
Pat the stew meat dry with paper towels. Rub the meat with 2 teaspoons (9 g) of the salt and 1 teaspoon of the pepper. Allow it to rest for 15 to 30 minutes at room temperature.
Step 2: Brown the Beef
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the beef on all sides, about 3 minutes per side. Work in batches if necessary to avoid crowding the skillet.
Step 3: Slow Cooking
Transfer the browned beef into a large slow cooker. Add the cooked beef, any oil or fat drippings, the remaining salt and pepper, onion, garlic, celery, carrots, dried parsley, thyme, bay leaves, Worcestershire sauce, and beef broth. Set the cooker on low and cook for 6 to 8 hours, or on high for 4 to 6 hours. Adjust by adding more broth or water if needed.
Step 4: Add Barley
About 40 to 45 minutes before the end of cooking, turn the slow cooker to high. Add the pearled barley and cook until tender, stirring occasionally.
Servings & Preparation Time
This recipe yields approximately 6 servings. Preparation time is about 20 minutes, with an additional 6 to 8 hours of slow cooking.
Tips for Storage & Reheating
- Storage: Cool the stew completely before storing it in airtight containers. It can be refrigerated for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the stew in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheating: Reheat on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until hot. Alternatively, microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Conclusion
The “Hearty Beef and Barley Delight” is a splendid stew that guarantees satisfaction with every spoonful. Packed with protein-rich beef, fiber-loaded barley, and a bounty of vegetables, it’s a meal that’s not only filling but also nutritious. Whether served on a quiet family dinner or as a warm welcome to friends, this stew is sure to please. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh parsley to enhance the flavor and presentation!
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Hearty Beef and Barley Delight
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
The “Hearty Beef and Barley Delight” is a robust and nourishing stew that marvelously combines tender beef, wholesome barley, and a mix of hearty vegetables. Ideal for chilly evenings, this slow-cooked recipe ensures a comforting meal that warms the heart and fills the stomach. With its straightforward preparation and slow cooker convenience, it’s a perfect dish for both busy weeknights and relaxing weekends.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs (908 g) beef stew meat or soup bones
- 3 tsp (12 g) kosher salt, divided
- 2 tsp ground black pepper, divided
- 2 tbsp (30 ml) olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 stalks celery, chopped
- 2 large carrots, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch (1-cm) chunks
- 2 tsp (6 g) dried parsley
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 2 bay leaves
- 2 tbsp (30 ml) Worcestershire sauce
- 4 cups (480 ml) beef broth
- 3/4 cup (150 g) pearled barley
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the Beef Pat the stew meat dry with paper towels. Rub the meat with 2 teaspoons (9 g) of the salt and 1 teaspoon of the pepper. Allow it to rest for 15 to 30 minutes at room temperature.
- Step 2: Brown the Beef Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the beef on all sides, about 3 minutes per side. Work in batches if necessary to avoid crowding the skillet.
- Step 3: Slow Cooking Transfer the browned beef into a large slow cooker. Add the cooked beef, any oil or fat drippings, the remaining salt and pepper, onion, garlic, celery, carrots, dried parsley, thyme, bay leaves, Worcestershire sauce, and beef broth. Set the cooker on low and cook for 6 to 8 hours, or on high for 4 to 6 hours. Adjust by adding more broth or water if needed.
- Step 4: Add Barley About 40 to 45 minutes before the end of cooking, turn the slow cooker to high. Add the pearled barley and cook until tender, stirring occasionally.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes