Crockpot Beef Barley Soup

Crockpot Beef Barley Soup is one of those comforting dishes that envelops you like a warm hug on a chilly day. Imagine coming home after a long day to the mouthwatering aroma of tender beef, hearty barley, and fresh vegetables simmering away in your kitchen. It’s like magic! This recipe is perfect for putting the slow cooker to good use, letting all those rich flavors meld together effortlessly. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it a win for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. Packed with tender beef and nutritious veggies, this soup not only fills you up but also warms your soul. So grab your favorite cozy sweater, pour yourself a cup of tea, and let’s get cooking!

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Why This Recipe Works

One of the best things about this Crockpot Beef Barley Soup is the magic of slow cooking. By allowing the ingredients to simmer together for hours, all the flavors meld beautifully, resulting in a robust and rich broth. The tender chunks of beef, fresh vegetables, and nutty barley create a comforting dish you can’t resist.

Plus, rinsing the barley before adding it to the soup enhances its texture and prevents any excess starch. This simple step makes a big difference, ensuring each bite is deliciously satisfying. The combination of all these elements makes this soup not just a meal, but a comforting experience.

Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Beef Barley Soup

There are so many reasons to love this recipe! First off, the preparation is effortless, requiring minimal cleanup. You can throw everything into the crockpot and let it do the work for you. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you might not feel like cooking.

Furthermore, it’s an excellent dish for cozy weekends when you want a hearty meal without spending the entire day in the kitchen. With its filling ingredients and rich flavors, this soup is great for feeding a crowd or enjoying leftovers throughout the week.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds stew meat (nicely marbled beef chunks)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• 2 tablespoons oil (vegetable or olive)
• 10 cups water
• 3 tablespoons mounded Better Than Bouillon Beef Base (quality recommended)
• 2 cups celery (chopped)
• 2 onions (chopped)
• 5 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 large potato (peeled and shredded, about 2 cups)
• 3-4 large carrots (peeled and shredded, about 2 cups)
• 1 cup pearl barley (rinsed)

Preparing Your Crockpot Beef Barley Soup

Preparing the Beef

Start by generously seasoning your beef stew meat with salt and pepper. This simple step will boost the flavor immensely. Next, heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large stockpot over medium-high heat until it’s nice and hot.

Once the oil is hot, add about one-third of the beef, making sure to brown all sides for 1-2 minutes each. This browning adds a delicious depth to the soup. Transfer the browned beef to a plate and repeat with the remaining meat in batches. It’s important to avoid overcrowding the pot so the meat can brown instead of steam.

Building the Base

Once you’ve browned all the beef, return it to the pot. Pour in 10 cups of water, then add the Better Than Bouillon beef base. Stir everything well to combine. Now, add the chopped celery, onions, and minced garlic into the pot. These aromatics will really lift the flavor.

Bring this aromatic mixture to a boil, and then reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover and let it simmer for about 2 hours. During this time, the beef will become tender and flavorful.

Adding Vegetables

After a couple of hours, check the beef—it should be tender and easily broken apart. Now, it’s time to add the shredded potato and carrots. Increase the temperature again to bring the mixture back to a boil. After boiling for a moment, lower the heat once more and let it simmer for an additional 30-45 minutes. This will ensure the carrots become tender and delicious.

Incorporating Barley

Finally, stir in 1 cup of rinsed pearl barley and bring it back to a boil. Lower the heat again and let it cook for another 30 minutes. The barley should be tender, and those lovely flavors will meld together beautifully.

Slow Cooker Instructions

Browning the Meat

If you prefer using a slow cooker, start by browning the beef in a large pan as mentioned earlier. Once browned, transfer the meat to a large crockpot.

Adding Liquid and Vegetables

To capture all those browned bits of flavor, deglaze the pan by adding 2 cups of water. Bring it to a boil while stirring to lift those bits from the bottom. Now, add this mixture along with the remaining 8 cups of water to the crockpot. Stir in the beef base, celery, onions, and garlic.

Setting the Slow Cooker

Set the slow cooker to cook on low for about 6 hours. After that time, add in the potatoes and carrots, cooking for an additional hour. Finally, stir in the barley and let it simmer for another hour until everything is tender and ready to eat.

Tips for Success

To ensure maximum flavor in your soup, make sure to brown the meat in batches—as we discussed earlier. You might also want to adjust the seasoning according to your own taste preferences. It’s always nice to personalize recipes to suit your palate.

Additionally, keep the lid on during simmering to preserve moisture. This helps your soup stay hearty and flavorful.

Variations

If you’re looking to change things up, you can swap the beef for chicken for a lighter option. Add spices like thyme or rosemary for a delightful aromatic twist. You can even mix in frozen peas or corn for extra color and nutrition.

Serving Suggestions

Your Crockpot Beef Barley Soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread, making for a hearty meal. For a little extra flair, consider topping it with fresh parsley or grated Parmesan. Both additions elevate the flavor and presentation.

Storage Tips

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, allowing you to enjoy this comforting dish throughout the week. You can also freeze single portions for an easy meal later on.

Pairing Ideas

To balance out the richness of the soup, pair it with a light salad dressed with a vinaigrette. A glass of red wine also complements the robust flavors beautifully, enhancing your dining experience.

FAQs

1. Can I make this soup without barley?
   Yes, you can omit barley or substitute it with rice or a gluten-free grain.

2. How can I thicken the soup?
   For a thicker consistency, mash some of the vegetables or add a cornstarch slurry.

3. Is this soup freezer-friendly?
   Yes, this soup freezes well! Just let it cool before transferring to freezer-safe containers.

4. How long does this take to cook in a crockpot?
   It typically takes around 6-7 hours in a slow cooker on low.

5. Can I add other vegetables?
   Absolutely! Feel free to add green beans, mushrooms, or any seasonal vegetables you enjoy.

Relish every spoonful of this vibrant and comforting Crockpot Beef Barley Soup. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that warms your heart and satisfies your appetite. Whether you’re gathering around the dinner table or prepping meals for a busy week, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Happy cooking!

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