Description
A hearty and comforting Slow Cooker Beef and Barley Soup featuring tender beef chuck, wholesome pearl barley, and a medley of vegetables slow-cooked to perfection for deep, rich flavors. Perfect for a nourishing meal that’s easy to prepare and packed with savory goodness.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat
- 1.5 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into 1-inch cubes
Vegetables
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Pantry Items
- 1 cup pearl barley
- 8 cups beef broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Brown the Beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the beef cubes in batches, making sure each piece is seared well. This step develops deep, rich flavors essential for the soup.
- Transfer to Slow Cooker: Place the browned beef cubes into your slow cooker, setting the foundation for the soup.
- Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet, add onions, carrots, celery, and garlic. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are slightly softened to release their flavors.
- Add Ingredients to Slow Cooker: Transfer the sautéed vegetables into the slow cooker with the beef. Pour in beef broth and diced tomatoes. Add pearl barley, bay leaves, dried thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Cook the Soup: Stir all ingredients well, cover the slow cooker, and set it to cook on low for 8 hours or high for 6 hours, allowing flavors to meld and beef to become tender.
- Final Seasoning: About 30 minutes before serving, taste the soup and adjust salt and pepper as needed to suit your preference.
Notes
- Browning the beef before slow cooking enhances the flavor and texture of the soup.
- You can substitute pearl barley with other grains like farro or brown rice if preferred, but cooking times may vary.
- For a thicker soup, remove the lid and simmer for an additional 15-20 minutes towards the end of cooking.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- Adjust seasoning gradually, as slow cooking can concentrate flavors.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 to 8 hours
- Category: Soup
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
