Beef Barley Soup (Slow Cooker) Recipe
Beef barley soup is a classic, hearty, and comforting dish that’s perfect for cozy family meals or a warming lunch on a chilly day. The slow cooker method makes it incredibly easy to prepare, allowing the rich flavors to develop over time while you go about your day. With tender chunks of beef, wholesome barley, and plenty of vegetables, this soup is not only nutritious but also filling and satisfying. Let’s dive into how to make this delicious dish and why you’ll love it!
About the Recipe
Beef barley soup is a timeless recipe that combines tender beef, chewy barley, and a variety of vegetables in a savory broth. The beauty of making this soup in the slow cooker is that it allows all of the ingredients to meld together over a long, slow simmer, creating deep, rich flavors with minimal effort. With just a little prep at the beginning, you can leave it to cook all day while the slow cooker does all the hard work. Plus, the barley soaks up all the savory goodness, adding a nice hearty texture to the soup.
This slow cooker beef barley soup is perfect for meal prep as it yields a big batch, meaning you can enjoy leftovers for days, or freeze some for later. It’s a versatile recipe, too—you can add in other vegetables like peas or corn, or even switch up the seasonings to suit your preferences. The slow cooker not only makes it easy but also makes the beef incredibly tender, giving you a melt-in-your-mouth experience with each bite.
Cooking Time, Preparation Time, and Servings
– Preparation Time: 15-20 minutes
– Cooking Time: 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high
– Servings: 6-8 servings
Why You Will Love This Recipe
1. Effortless: You only need about 15 minutes of prep time, and the slow cooker does the rest.
2. Rich Flavor: The slow cooking process allows all the ingredients to meld into a flavorful, savory broth.
3. Nutritious: Packed with lean beef, barley, and vegetables, it’s a well-rounded, wholesome meal.
4. Freezer-Friendly: Make a double batch and freeze some for an easy dinner on a busy night.
5. Customizable: Easily adjust the vegetables and seasonings to suit your preferences or dietary needs.
Ingredients Notes
– Beef: Use a lean cut of beef such as chuck roast or stew meat, as these become tender and flavorful when slow-cooked. Trim any excess fat before cooking.
– Barley: Pearled barley works best in this recipe because it cooks more quickly and has a tender, chewy texture.
– Vegetables: Carrots, onions, and celery are traditional, but feel free to add in potatoes, peas, or even spinach for added flavor and nutrients.
– Broth: Beef broth enhances the beefy flavor of the soup, but vegetable broth or chicken broth can also be used for a lighter taste.
– Seasonings: Bay leaves, thyme, rosemary, and garlic are the go-to seasonings, but you can add more herbs or spices based on your personal preferences.
How to Make Beef Barley Soup in the Slow Cooker
1. Prep the Ingredients: Cut the beef into bite-sized pieces and season with salt and pepper. Chop the vegetables into small pieces.
2. Combine in Slow Cooker: Add the beef, barley, onions, carrots, celery, garlic, and herbs to the slow cooker. Pour in the broth and give it a quick stir.
3. Cook: Set the slow cooker on low and cook for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, until the beef is tender and the barley is cooked through.
4. Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or herbs, if needed.
5. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot with crusty bread for dipping.
Storage Options
– Refrigerator: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
– Freezer: Beef barley soup freezes very well! Let it cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers or bags. It will keep for up to 3 months in the freezer. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Variations and Substitutions
– Vegetarian Version: Skip the beef and substitute with mushrooms or lentils for a plant-based version. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
– Different Grains: Swap the barley for other grains like farro, quinoa, or brown rice.
– Extra Veggies: Add additional vegetables such as peas, corn, or green beans for more color and nutrients.
– Herbs and Spices: Experiment with different herbs such as oregano or basil, or add a pinch of smoked paprika for a deeper flavor.
Conclusion
Beef barley soup made in the slow cooker is a cozy and hearty meal that’s as easy as it is delicious. The combination of tender beef, chewy barley, and a flavorful broth creates a dish that’s satisfying and nourishing. Whether you’re looking for a simple weeknight dinner or preparing for a busy week of lunches, this soup will quickly become a favorite in your meal rotation. And with its customizable ingredients and easy storage options, you can enjoy it again and again!