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When the chill of winter settles in or a rainy day calls for something warm and satisfying, comfort food takes center stage. Among the array of comforting dishes, hearty soups hold a cherished place in our hearts and kitchens. Bursting with flavor and nutrition, these soups often become family favorites, passed down through generations. One such classic is Rustic Hearty Beef Barley Soup—a dish that perfectly marries rich flavors with wholesome ingredients.

Hearty Beef Barley Soup

Warm up with a bowl of Rustic Hearty Beef Barley Soup, the perfect comfort food for any season. This recipe combines tender beef chuck, wholesome vegetables, and nutty pearl barley into a nourishing dish that warms the soul. With rich flavors developed through slow simmering and quality ingredients, it's a family favorite that’s easy to prepare. Discover tips for making this classic soup and serving suggestions that will leave everyone wanting more!
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Ingredients
  

1 lb beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 medium onion, diced

2 carrots, sliced

2 celery stalks, sliced

3 cloves garlic, minced

6 cups beef broth

1 cup pearl barley, rinsed

1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1 teaspoon dried rosemary

1 bay leaf

Salt and pepper to taste

1 cup frozen peas

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Sear the Beef: In a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes in batches, browning them on all sides, about 5-7 minutes per batch. Remove the beef and set aside.

    Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pot, add the onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5-6 minutes, until the vegetables are softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.

      Combine Ingredients: Return the browned beef to the pot. Pour in the beef broth, and add the rinsed pearl barley, diced tomatoes (with juice), thyme, rosemary, bay leaf, and salt and pepper. Stir well to combine.

        Simmer the Soup: Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender and the barley is cooked through.

          Add Peas: In the last 10 minutes of cooking, stir in the frozen peas. Adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Remove the bay leaf before serving.

            Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh chopped parsley.

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 min | 2 hr | 6 servings