Slow Cooker Beef Barley Soup

Cozy and Comforting Slow Cooker Beef Barley Soup

These hearty bowls of Slow Cooker Beef Barley Soup deliver a satisfying blend of protein, veggies, and whole grains, making it a perfect meal that warms you from the inside out. You can prepare this delicious and nourishing soup in just a few minutes, allowing your slow cooker to do the hard work while you focus on making memories with your loved ones.

There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm bowl of soup on a chilly evening. Growing up, I remember coming home from school to the delightful aroma of beef simmering in a savory broth, filling the house with an irresistible smell that made me feel all cozy inside. This recipe is an homage to those cherished moments, combining tender beef, vibrant vegetables, and nutty barley to create the ultimate comfort food. As the soup simmers gently throughout the day, it transforms into a wholesome meal that you can serve with pride.

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The Benefits of Making this Hearty Soup

When time is tight and you need a meal the whole family will love, this Slow Cooker Beef Barley Soup hits the spot. Packed with nutritious ingredients like vitamin-rich carrots and hearty barley, each serving provides a delicious dose of comfort and nourishment. Plus, it’s perfect for meal prepping and can easily feed a crowd. With simple ingredients and a straightforward process, you’ll love how effortless this dish is!

How to Make Cozy Beef Barley Soup

Ingredients:

• 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1.5 pounds boneless lean beef, cubed
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 6 cups water, divided
• 3 (10.5 ounce) cans beef broth
• 6 medium carrots, chopped
• 6 medium green onions, chopped
• 4 stalks celery, chopped
• 1 cup barley
• 0.5 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme

Directions:

1. Gather all your ingredients.
2. Heat the vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat and add the cubed beef. Sauté until the meat is nicely browned, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic powder, salt, and black pepper, then transfer the seasoned beef to your slow cooker.
3. Pour a few tablespoons of water into the skillet and stir, scraping up any tasty browned bits from the bottom. Pour this liquid into the slow cooker to add even more flavor.
4. Now, add the remaining water and beef broth, along with the chopped carrots, green onions, celery, barley, and parsley. Cover and cook on Low for 6 to 8 hours until everything is tender and comforting.
5. Just before serving, stir in the dried thyme for an extra pop of flavor.

Serving Your Cozy Beef Barley Soup

This soup is fantastic served straight from the slow cooker into warm bowls. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread for dipping and is guaranteed to please even the pickiest eaters at your table. A sprinkle of fresh parsley on top can bring color and a touch of freshness to each bowl, making it look as good as it tastes!

Storing Leftovers of this Comforting Dish

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store your beef barley soup in airtight containers in the fridge for up to three days. The flavors will continue to develop, making it even more delicious the next day. For longer storage, consider freezing portions in freezer-safe bags or containers. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just thaw and reheat on the stove until warmed throughout.

Tips for Perfecting Your Beef Barley Soup

• For added flavor, sear the beef in batches instead of overcrowding the skillet.
• Feel free to mix in any veggies you have on hand! Peas, corn, or bell peppers can work beautifully in this recipe.
• If you like a thicker soup, you can add more barley. Just remember, barley will absorb liquid as it sits, so adjust your broth accordingly.

Variations to Try

You can easily customize this soup to fit your family’s taste. For a bit of heat, add a dash of crushed red pepper or fresh chili peppers. If you prefer a gluten-free option, swap the barley for a different whole grain like quinoa or rice. The possibilities are endless!

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen beef for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen beef, but it may take a bit longer to cook through. Just ensure it reaches the safe cooking temperature.

2. Can I prepare this soup the night before?
Absolutely! You can chop your vegetables and measure out ingredients the night before. Just combine everything in your slow cooker in the morning before you head out for the day.

3. How can I make this soup vegetarian?
For a vegetarian version, replace the beef with hearty vegetables, like mushrooms or lentils, and swap the beef broth with vegetable broth. Keep the rest of the ingredients the same for a tasty and wholesome meal.

Each time you savor a bowl of this Slow Cooker Beef Barley Soup, you’ll be reminded of the warmth and love that comes from home-cooked meals. Enjoy every comforting spoonful!