The Best Beef Barley Soup

Hearty Beef Barley Soup is the perfect comfort food for chilly days or when you’re craving something warm and satisfying. This rich and flavorful soup combines tender chunks of beef with nutritious vegetables, wholesome pearl barley, and a savory broth, making it a complete meal in a bowl.

The addition of herbs and spices adds depth to the flavors, while the gravy mix enhances its heartiness. Easy to prepare and even better as leftovers, this soup is sure to become a family favorite!

The Best Beef Barley Soup

Ingredients

1 package beef gravy mix

2 cups cooked beef

1 tbsp olive oil

2 carrots, peeled and sliced

1 onion diced

1 garlic clove, minced

2 sticks of celery, cliced

6 cups of reduced sodium beef broth

1 can petite diced tomatoes

½ green pepper

1 bay leaf

½ tsp dried thyme

2 tbsp fresh parsley

2 tbsp Red Wine

⅔ cup pearl barley

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Sauté Onions and Garlic:

Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion becomes translucent.

Combine in Stockpot:

In a large stockpot, combine the cooked beef, sliced carrots, celery, green pepper, beef broth, diced tomatoes, and the sautéed garlic and onions.

Bring to a Boil:

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for 45 minutes.

Check Barley:

After 45 minutes, check if the pearl barley is tender. If it needs more time, simmer for an additional 10 to 20 minutes.

Finish and Serve:

Remove the bay leaf, stir in the thyme, parsley, red wine, and season with salt and pepper. Serve hot.

Enjoy your delicious Beef Barley Soup!

Notes:

Meat Options: While cooked beef is the star, you can use leftover roast, steak, or even ground beef. For a leaner option, consider using turkey or chicken.

Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add more vegetables such as potatoes, corn, or peas for added flavor and nutrition.

Barley Substitutes: If you don’t have pearl barley, you can use other grains like quinoa or farro, but adjust cooking times accordingly.

Flavor Enhancements: Adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or hot sauce can boost the flavor profile. Consider using fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary if available.

Cooking Time: For a richer flavor, allow the soup to simmer longer—up to 1.5 hours if you have the time.

Storage: This soup keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It also freezes well; just make sure to cool it completely before transferring to an airtight container.

Reheating: When reheating, you may need to add a little extra broth or water, as the barley can absorb liquid during storage.

Serving Suggestions: This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.

Salt Levels: Since the beef broth and gravy mix can be salty, taste the soup before adding additional salt.

Garnish Options: Fresh parsley or grated Parmesan cheese can add a nice finishing touch when serving.

Nutrition Information (per serving):

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes! You can substitute with leftover roast, ground beef, or even turkey for a leaner option.

What if I don’t have pearl barley?

You can use other grains like quinoa or farro, but be sure to adjust the cooking times.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to include potatoes, corn, peas, or any other vegetables you enjoy.

How long does this soup take to make?

The total cooking time is about 1.5 hours, including simmering time for the flavors to develop.

Can I make this soup in advance?

Yes! This soup keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and tastes even better the next day.

How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freeze for up to 3 months.

Cool completely before freezing.

What can I serve with this soup?

It pairs well with crusty bread, crackers, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.

Is this soup gluten-free?

The soup is not gluten-free due to the barley.

However, you can use gluten-free grains or omit grains altogether for a gluten-free version.

How can I make it spicier?

For added heat, incorporate red pepper flakes, diced jalapeños, or hot sauce.

What should I do if the soup is too thick?

If the soup becomes too thick after cooking or storing, simply add a little extra beef broth or water while reheating to reach your desired consistency.