Hearty Beef And Barley Soup
Hearty beef and barley soup combines tender ground beef, nutritious barley, and fresh vegetables in a savory broth, perfect for comforting family meals or chilly evenings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, combine barley and enough water to cover. Bring to a boil.
- Cook for 5 minutes, then drain and set aside.
- In a large kettle or soup pot, heat oil over high heat.
- Brown the ground beef, chopping into small bits.
- Add chopped onion and garlic; sauté for 2 to 3 minutes.
- Add cooked barley, 9 cups hot water, beef bouillon cubes, Worcestershire sauce, dried basil, salt, and bay leaf.
- Cover and simmer for 30 minutes or until vegetables are thoroughly cooked.
- Adjust cooking time if needed to ensure vegetables are done.
Tips & Substitutions
For a heartier flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine or a tablespoon of tomato paste. You can substitute the barley with quinoa for a gluten-free option, or use lentils for a different texture. If you prefer a thicker soup, mash some of the beans or add a few potatoes. Fresh herbs like parsley can brighten the dish just before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty beef and barley soup with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top adds a delightful richness. For a cozy night in, pair it with a glass of red wine. This dish is a comforting choice for chilly evenings and is perfect for meal prep.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it on the stovetop over medium heat until heated through, adding a little water if it has thickened. This soup also freezes well; portion it out and freeze for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hearty Beef And Barley Soup contains roughly 1279 calories, with 46g protein, 239g carbohydrates, and 26g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (206% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (192% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (169% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2920mg per serving (127% 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 make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes! To adapt this recipe for a slow cooker, brown the ground beef first, then add all ingredients to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the vegetables are tender and the flavors meld together.
What can I use instead of ground beef?
You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. For a vegetarian option, use lentils or mushrooms to provide a hearty texture. Adjust the cooking time accordingly if using different proteins to ensure they are fully cooked.
How can I make this soup spicier?
To add some heat, incorporate diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes while sautéing the onions and garlic. You can also serve the soup with a side of hot sauce for those who prefer to spice it up individually.
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).