Craving a warm, comforting bowl of goodness that's both delicious and surprisingly easy to make? Look no further! This beef barley soup recipe, featuring hearty ground beef, is a perfect example of a healthy meal that's ready in under an hour. It's a fantastic quick dinner idea, perfect for busy weeknights, and a delicious example of homemade cooking at its best. Get ready to enjoy this satisfying and flavorful soup that's sure to become a family favorite!
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 cups beef broth
- 1 cup barley
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Browning the Beef and Sautéing Vegetables
Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
Step 2: Building Flavor
Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the pot and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Combining Ingredients
Pour in the beef broth, add the barley, diced tomatoes (undrained), thyme, and rosemary. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Simmering to Perfection
Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 45 minutes, or until the barley is tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 5: Serving and Enjoying
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve hot and enjoy this easy recipe's delicious flavors!
Tips and Variations:
- For a richer flavor: Use bone-in beef short ribs or chuck roast instead of ground beef. This will require a longer cooking time (2-3 hours).
- Add more vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like potatoes, green beans, or zucchini.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Make it creamy: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt before serving.
- Boost the protein: Add cooked lentils or chickpeas for extra protein and fiber.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe makes about 6 servings. The nutritional information will vary depending on the specific ingredients used. However, a general estimate per serving is around:
- Calories: 300-350
- Protein: 20-25g
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35g
- Fiber: 5-7g
This hearty beef barley soup is a perfect example of a delicious and healthy meal, showcasing the best of easy recipes and homemade cooking. It's a great way to enjoy a comforting and satisfying soup that's perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!