Beef Barley Soup

Beef barley soup is a hearty, comforting dish that’s perfect for cooler weather. Here’s a simple recipe to get you started:

Ingredients:

• 1 lb beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, sliced
• 1 cup barley (pearl barley works well)
• 6 cups beef broth
• 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 2 bay leaves
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup frozen peas (optional)
• 1 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Sear the Beef:
   • Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
   • Add the beef cubes and sear them on all sides until browned. This step adds a lot of flavor to the soup. Remove the beef and set aside.
2. Cook the Vegetables:
   • In the same pot, add the onion and cook until translucent.
   • Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
   • Stir in the carrots and celery and cook for about 5 minutes, until they start to soften.
3. Combine Ingredients:
   • Return the beef to the pot and add the barley.
   • Pour in the beef broth and diced tomatoes.
   • Stir in thyme, rosemary, bay leaves, salt, and pepper.
4. Simmer:
   • Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.
   • Cover and let it simmer for about 1 hour, or until the beef is tender and the barley is cooked.
5. Add Peas (Optional):
   • If using, stir in the frozen peas and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
6. Finish and Serve:
   • Remove the bay leaves.
   • Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
   • Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve hot.

This soup keeps well and actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Enjoy your hearty and satisfying bowl of beef barley soup!