When the weather turns chilly, there’s nothing quite like a hearty bowl of Beef Barley Stew to warm you up from the inside out. This comforting dish is a perfect blend of tender beef, wholesome barley, and flavorful vegetables that come together in a rich, savory broth. Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight meal or a dish to impress your guests, this recipe is sure to hit the spot. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let’s get cooking!
Beef Barley Stew
Ingredients:
– 1.5 pounds beef chuck, cut into bite-sized cubes
– 1 cup pearl barley
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 carrots, sliced
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 6 cups beef broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes and season with salt and pepper. Cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add the diced onion, carrots, celery, and minced garlic to the pot. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Pour in the beef broth and diced tomatoes with their juice. Add the dried thyme and rosemary. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
4. Stir in the pearl barley, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let the stew simmer gently for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender and the barley is cooked through, stirring occasionally.
5. Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. If the stew is too thick, you can add more beef broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
6. Once the beef is tender and the barley is cooked to your liking, remove the pot from the heat. Let the stew sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
7. Ladle the Beef Barley Stew into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy this comforting and satisfying dish with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad.
Warm, nourishing, and packed with flavor, this Beef Barley Stew is a true crowd-pleaser that will fill your home with delicious aromas and keep you coming back for more. So, next time you’re in need of a soul-warming meal, give this recipe a try and watch as it quickly becomes a favorite in your household. Happy cooking!
