Classic Beef Barley Soup
Cozy Up with Slow Cooker Beef Barley Soup: The Ultimate Comfort Food
When the weather turns chilly, there’s nothing quite like a hearty, flavorful soup to warm you from the inside out. And if you’re looking for a soup that’s both delicious and incredibly easy to make, look no further than our Slow Cooker Beef Barley Soup! This recipe is a true set-it-and-forget-it meal, perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekend afternoons.
This isn’t your average beef barley soup. The slow cooker method allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, resulting in a rich, savory broth and tender beef. The barley adds a delightful chewiness, while the carrots, celery, and onion provide a classic aromatic base. A touch of Worcestershire sauce and a blend of herbs elevate the flavor profile, creating a truly unforgettable soup.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Effortless: Minimal prep time and hands-off cooking make this recipe a breeze.
- Flavorful: The slow cooker process infuses the soup with deep, rich flavors.
- Hearty & Filling: This soup is substantial enough to be a complete meal.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch on the weekend and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
Tips for the Best Beef Barley Soup:
- Beef Choice: While tenderloin works beautifully, stewing beef is a more economical option and will become wonderfully tender during the long cooking time.
- Don’t Skip the Sauté: Sautéing the carrots, celery, and onion before adding them to the slow cooker enhances their flavor and adds depth to the soup.
- Herb Power: Feel free to adjust the herbs to your liking. A sprig of fresh rosemary or a pinch of dried oregano would also be delicious additions.
- Garnish it Up: A sprinkle of fresh parsley and thyme adds a pop of color and freshness.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve this hearty soup with a crusty loaf of bread for dipping, or a side salad for a complete and satisfying meal. It’s also fantastic with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of shredded cheese.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a different type of barley?
A: Pearl barley is recommended for this recipe, as it cooks quickly and has a pleasant texture. However, you can use hulled barley if you prefer, but it will require a longer cooking time.
Q: Can I make this soup ahead of time?
A: Yes! This soup actually tastes even better the next day, as the flavors have had time to meld together. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Q: Can I freeze this soup?
A: Yes, you can freeze this soup. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It will keep in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
Q: What if I don’t have Worcestershire sauce?
A: You can substitute with a tablespoon of soy sauce or a splash of balsamic vinegar, but the flavor will be slightly different.
Q: Can I add other vegetables?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like potatoes, mushrooms, or green beans to customize the soup to your liking.
Slow Cooker Beef Barley Soup
Ingredients
- 8 c Beef Broth
- 1 c Tomato sauce
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp Marjoram
- 1 tsp dried Thyme
- 1/4 tsp Salt
- 1/4 tsp Pepper
- 1/2 c Pearl Barley
- 1 c Carrots (diced)
- 1 c Celery (diced)
- 1 c white Onion (diced)
- 1 clove Minced Garlic
- 2 Bay Leaves
- 1.5 lbs cooked tenderloin roast or browned stewing beef
Instructions
- Dice the tenderloin or stewing beef into bite sized pieces and add to the bottom of your crock pot.
- Add the Minced Garlic, diced carrots, celery, and onion to a medium sauté pan and cook for roughly 5 minutes until softened. Add to your crock pot.
- Add the Beef broth, Tomato Sauce, Worcestershire sauce, Marjoram, Thyme, Salt and Pepper, Pearl Barley, and Bay leaves to the crock pot. Stir to combine.
- Leave on a low setting for at least 6 hours.
- Serve garnished with a sprinkle of fresh Parsley and Thyme.
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