Hamburger And Barley Pot
A hearty beef and barley stew with tender vegetables and rich flavors, perfect for comforting family dinners and suitable for those seeking a filling, nutritious meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Lightly brown the ground beef in margarine, breaking it up as it cooks. Add the sliced onion and cook for 5 more minutes.
- Add water, sliced carrots, chopped parsley, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and sliced tomatoes to the pot.
- Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Add barley to the boiling mixture.
- Reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 1 1/2 to 2 hours, or until the barley is tender, reducing liquid in the last 15 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider substituting ground turkey for the beef or adding diced bell peppers for extra nutrition. You can also use vegetable broth instead of water for a richer taste. If you're short on time, pre-cooked barley can be used, adding it in the last 10 minutes of cooking. For a thicker consistency, mash some of the cooked tomatoes into the pot.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty dish pairs well with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a balanced meal. For a comforting twist, serve with garlic bread or alongside roasted vegetables. This recipe also makes a great filling for burritos or as a topping for baked potatoes, enhancing the flavors found in other beef recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a splash of water if necessary to prevent sticking. You can also microwave individual portions in a covered bowl, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hamburger And Barley Pot contains roughly 1380 calories, with 118g protein, 192g carbohydrates, and 39g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (534% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (384% of the Daily Value), and protein (236% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 grain instead of barley?
Yes, you can substitute barley with quinoa or farro for a different texture and flavor. Just adjust the cooking time according to the grain's requirements, as some may take less time to cook than barley.
Is it possible to make this dish in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Brown the beef and onion as instructed, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, adding the barley during the last hour of cooking for perfect tenderness.
What can I do to make this dish spicier?
For some heat, add chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper during cooking. Alternatively, serve with hot sauce or add red pepper flakes to individual portions. This adds a nice kick without overpowering the dish.
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).