Best Beef Barley Soup Ever

There’s something profoundly comforting about a hearty bowl of Beef Barley Soup, especially when it’s homemade. Packed with nutritious vegetables, tender chunks of beef, and plump grains of barley, it’s a bowlful of comfort that promises not only warmth but also a burst of flavor with every spoonful.

This soup is like a hug in a bowl, ideal for chilly days or whenever you need a wholesome, satisfying meal. The beauty of this Beef Barley Soup lies in its simplicity and the depth of flavor you develop as it simmers. It’s perfect for making ahead of time as the flavors deepen overnight, making your next-day lunch or dinner even more delicious. Serve it up with some crusty bread for an effortless, nourishing meal that will fill your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas and your belly with hearty goodness.

INGREDIENTS:

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 onion, chopped

1 garlic clove, minced

2 carrots, sliced

1 rib of celery, sliced

2 cups cooked beef, chopped

6 cups reduced sodium beef broth

1 can (14-15 oz) petite diced tomatoes, undrained

½ green pepper, diced

⅔ cup barley

1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

¼ teaspoon dried thyme

1 package beef gravy mix

1 bay leaf

2 tablespoons red wine (optional)

2 tablespoons fresh parsley (or 2 teaspoons dried)

Salt and pepper to taste

DIRECTIONS:

Start the Base

Heat the Olive Oil: In a large pot, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.

Cook the Onion and Garlic: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Cook them until they are softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes. This initial step helps build the foundation of flavors for the soup.

Simmer the Soup

Add Vegetables and Beef: To the pot, add 2 sliced carrots, 1 sliced rib of celery, and 2 cups of chopped cooked beef. Stir everything together to combine.

Add Broth and Tomatoes: Pour in 6 cups of reduced sodium beef broth and the undrained can of petite diced tomatoes. The broth serves as the liquid base of the soup, while the tomatoes add a touch of acidity and sweetness.

Incorporate Green Pepper and Barley: Add the diced green pepper and ⅔ cup of barley to the pot. The green pepper adds a slight crunch and freshness, while the barley provides a hearty texture.

Season the Soup: Add 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, ¼ teaspoon of dried thyme, and 1 package of beef gravy mix. These ingredients enhance the savory flavor profile of the soup …