Pin A hearty, comforting Vegetable Beef, Barley, and Mushroom Soup is the ultimate remedy for chilly days. This nourishing dish brings together tender beef stew meat, wholesome pearl barley, and earthy cremini mushrooms in a rich, savory broth that has been simmered to perfection. It is a classic American favorite that satisfies the soul as much as the appetite.
Pin As the soup gently bubbles on the stove, the barley absorbs the rich flavors of the beef broth and dried herbs. This slow-simmering process ensures that every bite is packed with depth, making it an ideal choice for a weekend dinner or meal prep for the week ahead.
Ingredients
- 500 g (1.1 lbs) beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 100 g (1/2 cup) pearl barley, rinsed
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 250 g (9 oz) cremini or white mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium potato, peeled and diced
- 1 can (400 g/14 oz) diced tomatoes, with juices
- 1.5 L (6 cups) beef broth
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried parsley
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Step 1
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add beef cubes and brown on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove beef and set aside.
- Step 2
- In the same pot, add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 4–5 minutes until softened.
- Step 3
- Add mushrooms and cook for another 3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Step 4
- Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Step 5
- Return browned beef to the pot. Add diced potatoes, tomatoes with juices, pearl barley, beef broth, bay leaf, thyme, and parsley. Stir to combine.
- Step 6
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
- Step 7
- Check barley and beef for tenderness. Simmer uncovered for 15–20 minutes more if needed, until barley is tender and soup has thickened slightly.
- Step 8
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove bay leaf before serving.
- Step 9
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For a more complex and richer flavor profile, try adding a splash of dry red wine to the pot immediately after browning the beef to deglaze the bottom. Always remember to check labels for your broth and canned tomatoes for potential allergens like gluten or celery.
Varianten und Anpassungen
If you are short on time, you can substitute the beef stew meat for lean ground beef. For those looking to increase their vegetable intake, stir in some chopped kale or fresh spinach during the last 10 minutes of simmering.
Serviervorschläge
This hearty soup is best served piping hot in large bowls. A garnish of freshly chopped parsley adds a bright touch of color and freshness. It pairs excellently with crusty bread for dipping into the savory broth.
Pin Whether you are looking for a meal to warm your bones or a healthy dinner that the whole family will love, this Vegetable Beef, Barley, and Mushroom Soup is a reliable classic. Enjoy the rich aromas and satisfying textures of this homemade comfort food.
Recipe FAQ
- → How long does this soup need to simmer?
The soup simmers for approximately 1 hour covered, then an additional 15-20 minutes uncovered until the barley is tender and the broth has thickened slightly.
- → Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes. Brown the beef first, then add all ingredients to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours until beef and barley are tender.
- → Does the barley need to be soaked beforehand?
No soaking required. Pearl barley cooks directly in the soup and will become tender during the simmering process.
- → Can I freeze this soup?
Absolutely. Cool completely before transferring to airtight containers. Freeze for up to 3 months. The barley may absorb more liquid upon reheating.
- → What cuts of beef work best?
Chuck or stew meat are ideal as they become tender during long simmering. You can also use lean ground beef for a quicker cooking version.
- → Is this soup gluten-free?
No, pearl barley contains gluten. For a gluten-free version, substitute with rice, quinoa, or omit grains entirely and add more vegetables.