If you're craving a comforting, slow-cooked soup that’s full of rich flavors and satisfying textures, look no further than this Crockpot Beef Barley Soup. This delicious meal features melt-in-your-mouth tender beef simmered with vibrant carrots, celery, and hearty pearl barley, all swimming in a savory, herb-infused beef broth. The slow cooking process allows each ingredient to blend perfectly, creating a soup that’s deeply flavorful and perfect for cozy nights.

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Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week, this Crockpot Beef Barley Soup is simple, nourishing, and packed with wholesome goodness.

Fun Fact: The History of Barley in Soup

Barley has been a staple grain in soups for centuries, dating back to ancient civilizations. Known for its nutty flavor and chewy texture, barley is not only delicious but also packed with fiber and nutrients. In hearty soups like this one, it adds an extra layer of texture and makes the meal even more satisfying.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This Crockpot Beef Barley Soup stores well for up to 4 days in the fridge when kept in an airtight container. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over medium heat or microwave until hot. The soup also freezes well for up to 3 months. Make sure to store it in a freezer-safe container, and thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Cooking Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, sear the beef pieces in a hot skillet before adding them to the crockpot. This caramelizes the meat, adding depth to the soup. If you prefer a thicker broth, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water and stir it in during the last 30 minutes of cooking. You can also switch up the veggies by adding mushrooms, spinach, or potatoes for extra heartiness!

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Based on 8 Servings):

• Calories: 320 kcal
• Fat: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Protein: 30g
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 900mg
• Fiber: 4g

This Crockpot Beef Barley Soup is a balanced meal packed with protein, fiber, and hearty vegetables, making it a perfect wholesome dinner for the whole family.

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Crockpot Beef Barley Soup Recipe

Ingredients:

For the Soup:

• ½ large onion, diced
• 4 cups beef broth (homemade or good-quality store-bought)
• 2 cups water
• 14.5 ounces diced tomatoes
• 3 large carrots, diced
• 4 stalks celery, diced
• ¾ cup pearl barley
• 1 teaspoon granulated garlic
• 4 sprigs fresh thyme or 1 ½ teaspoons dried thyme
• 1 ½ teaspoons fresh or dried rosemary
• 1 ½ pounds stew meat, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper, or to taste
• 1 cup frozen or fresh peas

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Crockpot:Add the diced onion, beef broth, water, diced tomatoes, carrots, celery, pearl barley, granulated garlic, thyme, rosemary, stew meat, salt, and pepper to your crockpot. Stir everything together to combine well.
2. Cook the Soup:Set your crockpot on high for 6 hours, or low for 8-10 hours, depending on your schedule. The slow cooking process will allow all the flavors to meld beautifully, and the beef will become tender and flavorful.
3. Add the Peas:About 30 minutes before the cooking time is up, adjust the seasoning by tasting the soup and adding more salt or pepper if needed. Then, add the frozen peas and stir. Continue cooking until the peas are heated through.
4. Serve and Enjoy:Once the soup is done, ladle it into bowls and serve it piping hot. This soup pairs perfectly with a slice of crusty bread or warm biscuits for a complete, hearty meal.

Optional Variations

For added flavor, try substituting the stew meat with ground beef or lamb. You can also add diced potatoes, mushrooms, or even leafy greens like spinach for extra texture and nutrients.