Slow Cooker Beef Barley Soup: A Hearty, Flavor-Packed Recipe
Warm up with this Slow Cooker Beef Barley Soup, a rich and hearty dish perfect for chilly evenings. Packed with tender beef, wholesome barley, and flavorful vegetables, this slow cooker recipe is not only comforting but also incredibly easy to prepare. Whether you’re looking for a simple weeknight dinner or a meal to impress, this beef barley soup is sure to be a hit.
Ingredients for the Best Beef Barley Soup
1 1/2 pounds beef stew meat, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 cup pearl barley, rinsed for a clean, nutty flavor
2 carrots, peeled and sliced
2 celery stalks, sliced
1 onion, finely chopped
3 cloves of garlic, minced for a savory kick
1 cup mushrooms, sliced
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
6 cups beef broth, rich and flavorful
2 cups water
2 bay leaves
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions: How to Make Slow Cooker Beef Barley Soup
1. Sear the Beef for Added Flavor
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the beef stew meat, season with salt and pepper, and brown on all sides (about 5-7 minutes). Browning locks in the flavors and creates a richer soup.
Transfer the browned beef to your slow cooker.
2. Sauté the Aromatics
In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if needed.
Sauté the onions and minced garlic until fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. This step builds a flavorful base for your soup.
Transfer the sautéed onions and garlic to the slow cooker.
3. Add the Vegetables and Barley
To the slow cooker, add carrots, celery, mushrooms, and diced tomatoes.
Stir in the pearl barley for its nutty texture and the perfect hearty addition to this soup.
4. Add Broth and Seasonings
Pour in the beef broth and water.
Add the bay leaves and dried thyme for depth of flavor.
Mix everything well, ensuring the barley and vegetables are evenly distributed.
5. Cook to Perfection
Place the lid on your slow cooker and cook on low for 7-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours. This slow cooking process tenderizes the beef and infuses the soup with bold flavors.
6. Final Touches
About 30 minutes before serving, stir the soup thoroughly and check the seasoning. Adjust with more salt and pepper if needed.
Remove the bay leaves before serving to avoid any bitterness.
Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Beef Barley Soup
Comfort in Every Bite: The perfect balance of tender beef, chewy barley, and fresh vegetables.
Easy Preparation: Your slow cooker does all the hard work, leaving you with minimal effort.
Wholesome Ingredients: A hearty soup that’s packed with protein, fiber, and nutrients.
Pro Tips for the Best Results
For extra flavor, substitute water with additional beef broth.
Want more vegetables? Add diced potatoes or parsnips for an even heartier soup.
Freeze leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
Warm up your kitchen and your soul with this Slow Cooker Beef Barley Soup. It’s the ultimate combination of ease, nutrition, and unbeatable flavor. Perfect for meal prep or family dinners!
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