Old-Fashioned Beef Barley Soup

Name: Old-Fashioned Beef Barley Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h 30 min
Total time: 1 h 45 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes; 1 cup barley; 1 onion, chopped; 2 carrots, sliced; 2 celery stalks, sliced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 6 cups beef broth; 1 tsp dried thyme; 1 bay leaf; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tbsp olive oil

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Warm your soul with this hearty Old-Fashioned Beef Barley Soup, a timeless classic that combines tender beef, wholesome barley, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs. Perfect for chilly days, this comforting dish is easy to make and packed with flavor, making it an ideal meal for family gatherings or a cozy night in.

Created by

Stella Cameron

Last updated on 2025-12-11T08:52:41.598Z

This soup is a comforting classic that has been passed down through generations, bringing warmth and happiness to family dinners.

A Hearty Meal for Any Occasion

Old-Fashioned Beef Barley Soup is more than just a dish; it's a meal that brings friends and family together. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet night in, this soup fits the bill perfectly. The robust flavors of tender beef and savory vegetables make it a comforting choice that everyone will love. Plus, it’s simple enough to whip up on a busy weeknight, making it an ideal recipe for your culinary repertoire.

This soup is also a great way to use up any leftover vegetables you have on hand. Feel free to get creative by adding seasonal vegetables or fresh herbs to personalize the flavor of the soup. The versatility of this recipe makes it easy to adjust based on what you have in your pantry, ensuring that it never feels stale or repetitive.

Nutritional Benefits of Barley

Barley is a nutritious grain that not only provides a hearty texture but also a wealth of health benefits. High in fiber, barley helps support digestive health and can aid in weight management. Integrating barley into your meals promotes a feeling of fullness and satisfaction, making it an excellent addition to this soup. Its nutty flavor pairs wonderfully with the other ingredients, enhancing both taste and nutrition.

Moreover, barley is packed with essential vitamins and minerals, including B vitamins, manganese, phosphorus, and magnesium. By incorporating barley into your diet through this Old-Fashioned Beef Barley Soup, you're nourishing your body with wholesome ingredients that keep you energized and healthy.

Storage and Reheating Tips

One of the great things about Old-Fashioned Beef Barley Soup is how well it stores, making it a perfect make-ahead meal. After cooking, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days or frozen for even longer storage. Just be sure to leave a bit of space in the container, as the soup will expand when freezing.

When reheating, it's best to use a stovetop for even heating. Just add a splash of broth or water to the pot to restore some moisture, as the soup may thicken after refrigeration. Warm it over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches your desired temperature. This way, you can enjoy this comforting dish multiple times without losing any of its quality.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make the soup:

Ingredients

1 lb beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
1 cup barley
1 onion, chopped
2 carrots, sliced
2 celery stalks, sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
6 cups beef broth
1 tsp dried thyme
1 bay leaf
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp olive oil

Make sure to have everything ready before you start cooking.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your hearty soup:

Brown the Beef

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the beef and brown on all sides.

Add Vegetables and Broth

Add the onion, carrots, celery, and garlic to the pot, sautéing until tender. Pour in the beef broth and add thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper.

Cook the Soup

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 1 hour.

Add Barley

Add the barley to the pot and continue to cook for an additional 30 minutes, or until the barley is tender.

Serve

Remove the bay leaf, adjust seasoning if necessary, and serve hot.

Enjoy your delicious soup with some crusty bread!

Pairing Suggestions

To elevate your dining experience, consider pairing Old-Fashioned Beef Barley Soup with a side of crusty bread or a fresh green salad. A slice of sourdough or a warm baguette is perfect for soaking up the flavorful broth. Alternatively, a light green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich earthiness of the soup.

For a beverage, a robust red wine, such as a Cabernet Sauvignon or a Merlot, complements the savory nature of the soup beautifully. If you're looking for a non-alcoholic option, a sparkling water with a splash of lemon can add brightness to your meal.

Customization Ideas

Don't hesitate to personalize your Old-Fashioned Beef Barley Soup. You might want to add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a teaspoon of hot sauce for a kick of flavor. Experimenting with different types of broth, like chicken or vegetable broth, can also give the dish a unique twist while accommodating dietary preferences.

For those looking to enhance nutritional value, consider incorporating beans or lentils alongside the barley. Not only will they enrich the soup's texture, but they'll also boost protein and fiber. Enjoy the creative process as you adapt this classic recipe to suit your tastes!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, this soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.

→ What can I substitute for barley?

You can use quinoa or rice as a substitute, although cooking times may vary.