Cozy Beef And Barley Soup

Name: Cozy Beef And Barley Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch pieces; 1/2 cup barley, rinsed; 1 onion, diced; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 6 cups beef broth; 1 tablespoon tomato paste; 1 teaspoon thyme; 1 bay leaf; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Simple & Speedy

I absolutely love making Cozy Beef and Barley Soup during the chilly months. This hearty soup warms not only the body but also the soul with its rich flavors and satisfying texture. The combination of tender beef, chewy barley, and a medley of vegetables creates a dish that is both nourishing and comforting. I find that letting it simmer for a while really enhances the flavors, allowing the beef to become tender and the barley to soak up all the goodness. It’s a perfect meal for gatherings or a cozy night in!

Created by

Brittany Shaw

Last updated on 2026-02-27T19:45:35.683Z

When I first decided to make this Cozy Beef and Barley Soup, I envisioned a dish that would bring warmth to those cold winter nights. After experimenting with various ingredients, I discovered that using a combination of fresh herbs not only boosted the flavor but also made the kitchen smell delightful as it cooked. The rich aroma of beef simmering with garlic and thyme instantly transports me to cozy family dinners around the table.

One key tip I learned is to brown the beef before adding it to the soup; this caramelization not only deepens the flavor but also adds a richness that is hard to replicate. I love to serve it with crusty bread for dipping, making it a complete meal that is sure to please anyone who tries it!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Hearty and satisfying with wholesome ingredients
Perfectly seasoned with fresh herbs and spices
Great for meal prep and leftovers, tastes even better the next day

Essential Techniques for a Perfect Soup

Browning the beef is a crucial step in developing a rich flavor base for your Cozy Beef and Barley Soup. Make sure to let the meat sear undisturbed for a few minutes, until it's beautifully browned on all sides. This caramelization adds depth to the overall taste of the soup. If you notice any fond (browned bits) stuck to the bottom of the pot, don't worry; they'll lift when you add the broth, enriching the soup even further.

When sautéing the vegetables, aim for a fragrant and colorful medley. Cook them just until they start to soften, about 5 minutes on medium heat, ensuring they don't brown. This gentle cooking method helps release their natural sugars and creates a sweet, aromatic base that perfectly complements the hearty beef and barley. You can also add other veggies like parsnips or mushrooms for different flavors and textures.

Customizing Your Soup

One of the great aspects of this recipe is its versatility. If you're looking to make it lighter, consider using a leaner cut of beef, like chuck roast, or swapping half of the beef with mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian option. Additionally, feel free to experiment with grains: quinoa or farro can work in place of barley, but adjust cooking times accordingly, as they may require less time to cook.

For those who love a little heat, adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños during the sautéing phase can give the soup a wonderful kick. Alternatively, a dash of Worcestershire sauce added during the simmering phase deepens the umami flavor, making it even more satisfying. Don’t hesitate to play around with herbs too; rosemary or oregano can work beautifully in conjunction with the thyme.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to prepare a delicious bowl of Cozy Beef and Barley Soup.

Ingredients

1 pound beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch pieces
1/2 cup barley, rinsed
1 onion, diced
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
6 cups beef broth
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 teaspoon thyme
1 bay leaf
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Ensure you have everything ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Now that you have your ingredients, let’s get started on making this delicious soup.

Brown the Beef

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef stew meat and season with salt and pepper. Brown the meat on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the pot and set aside.

Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, add diced onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. Sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.

Combine Ingredients

Return the browned beef to the pot, then add barley, beef broth, tomato paste, thyme, and bay leaf. Stir well to combine.

Simmer the Soup

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover. Let it simmer for about 45 minutes or until the beef is tender and barley is cooked, stirring occasionally.

Serve

Remove the bay leaf, taste, and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Enjoy this hearty soup with some crusty bread!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine to the pot after browning the beef.

Storing and Reheating

This Cozy Beef and Barley Soup is great for meal prep! It keeps well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When storing, let it cool to room temperature before sealing to minimize condensation. If you want to freeze it, portion the soup into freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving some space for expansion. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and heat gently on the stovetop until warmed through.

While reheating, you may notice the barley absorbs more liquid, thickening the soup. If that happens, simply add a splash of beef broth or water to reach your desired consistency. Stir it occasionally over medium heat until bubbling and adjust the seasoning as needed, since flavors may intensify during storage.

Serving Suggestions

For a complete meal, consider pairing your Cozy Beef and Barley Soup with crusty bread or homemade biscuits. A drizzle of high-quality olive oil or a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese right before serving adds an extra touch of richness. If you want to lighten the dish further, serve it alongside a fresh green salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the hearty flavors of the soup.

If you're serving guests or want to elevate the presentation, consider garnishing with freshly chopped parsley or chives just before serving. This not only adds a pop of color but also a fresh flavor contrast to the warm, savory soup. You could even set up a soup bar with toppings like croutons, cheese, or crushed red pepper for a fun twist.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, you can substitute beef with lamb or even chicken for a lighter option.

→ Is it okay to freeze the soup?

Absolutely! This soup freezes well. Just store it in airtight containers for up to 3 months.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Definitely! Feel free to add vegetables like potatoes, peas, or green beans as per your preference.

→ How long will leftovers last in the fridge?

Leftover soup will last in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days when stored in an airtight container.