Beef And Barley Dinner
Hearty beef and barley stew packed with vegetables and rich flavors, perfect for comforting family dinners or satisfying weeknight meals with a creamy topping option.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large skillet, brown ground beef, green pepper, onion, and garlic.
- Drain excess fat from the skillet.
- Add water, tomatoes, tomato paste, sugar, and barley to the skillet.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer.
- Cover and cook for 50 to 60 minutes or until barley is tender, stirring occasionally.
- Serve hot, optionally topped with sour cream.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a mix of ground beef and ground pork. If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute the beef with lentils or mushrooms. To enhance the dish, add herbs like thyme or bay leaves during cooking. If you're short on time, quick-cooking barley can be used instead of traditional barley.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty dish with crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Four Bean Baked Beans for a comforting side. For an added touch, consider topping each serving with a dollop of sour cream and fresh herbs for extra flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of water if necessary to achieve the desired consistency. This dish also freezes well; just thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Beef And Barley Dinner contains roughly 1004 calories, with 31g protein, 162g carbohydrates, and 28g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (62% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (56% of the Daily Value), and iron (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 740mg per serving (32% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of meat for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Alternatively, for a more robust flavor, try using ground lamb. Just adjust the cooking time as needed since different meats may cook differently.
How do I know when the barley is done cooking?
The barley is done when it is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid. You can check by tasting a small amount; it should be chewy but not hard. If needed, you can add a bit more water and continue cooking until it's fully tender.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! Carrots, celery, or peas can be added for extra nutrition and flavor. Just chop them into small pieces and add them to the skillet along with the water and other ingredients. Adjust the cooking time if necessary to ensure they are tender.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).