Slow Cooker Beef & Barley Soup is a classic, comforting dish that’s perfect for chilly days or when you need a hearty meal that’s easy to make. This soup is filled with tender chunks of beef, nutty barley, and a mix of vegetables, all slow-cooked to perfection. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in a rich, delicious soup that’s sure to warm you up from the inside out.

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Ingredients
3. Step-by-Step Instructions
4. Cook Notes & Tips
5. Variations
6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
7. Conclusion

Ingredients

For Beef & Barley Soup

• 1 1/2 pounds beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 large carrots, sliced
• 2 stalks celery, sliced
• 1 cup pearl barley, rinsed
• 6 cups beef broth
• 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 2 bay leaves
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

1. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat the olive oil. Add the beef stew meat and sear for 2-3 minutes per side until browned. This step adds depth of flavor to the soup.
2. Transfer the seared beef to your slow cooker.

Step 2: Add the Vegetables and Broth

1. To the slow cooker, add the chopped onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, celery, rinsed barley, beef broth, diced tomatoes, dried thyme, dried rosemary, bay leaves, salt, black pepper, and Worcestershire sauce.
2. Stir to combine all the ingredients evenly.

Step 3: Cook the Soup

1. Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, until the beef is tender and the barley is cooked through.
2. Remove the bay leaves before serving.

Step 4: Serve

1. Ladle the beef and barley soup into bowls and garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired. Serve warm with crusty bread on the side.

Cook Notes & Tips

• Searing the Beef: Searing the beef before adding it to the slow cooker helps to lock in flavor and adds a rich, caramelized taste to the soup.
• Barley: Make sure to rinse the barley before adding it to the soup to remove any excess starch and debris.
• Broth: Use a good quality beef broth for the best flavor. You can also use a combination of beef broth and water if needed.

Variations

• Vegetable Beef & Barley Soup: Add additional vegetables such as diced potatoes, peas, or green beans for more texture and flavor.
• Herbed Beef & Barley Soup: Add a teaspoon of Italian seasoning or a handful of fresh chopped herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano for an herbaceous twist.
• Tomato-Free Version: If you prefer a non-tomato version, simply omit the diced tomatoes. The soup will still be hearty and flavorful without them.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I Use a Different Cut of Beef?

Yes, you can use chuck roast or any other cut of beef that becomes tender with slow cooking. Just make sure to cut it into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.

2. How Should I Store Leftovers?

Store any leftover beef and barley soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.

3. Can I Freeze Beef & Barley Soup?

Yes, this soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

4. What Can I Serve with This Soup?

This hearty soup pairs well with crusty bread, a simple green salad, or even some garlic bread for dipping. It’s also delicious with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top.

Slow Cooker Beef & Barley Soup is a comforting and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any time of year. With tender beef, hearty barley, and a rich broth, this soup is packed with flavor and easy to make in your slow cooker. It’s the perfect meal to come home to after a long day—just set it in the morning, and enjoy a warm, nourishing dinner in the evening.

Feel free to customize the ingredients to suit your taste and enjoy this classic comfort food with your favorite sides.

Happy cooking!