Easy Beef and Barley Stew Recipe

This beef and barley stew is a filling and nutritious dish, perfect for chilly days. It combines tender beef, wholesome barley, and a variety of vegetables, creating a comforting meal that warms you from the inside out.

The recipe is simple to follow and allows for customization with your favorite vegetables or herbs, making it a versatile option for any home cook.

Warmth in a Bowl

There's something truly comforting about a steaming bowl of beef and barley stew. The combination of tender beef, hearty barley, and vibrant vegetables creates a dish that not only satisfies hunger but also warms the soul.

As the stew simmers, the rich aromas fill the kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around the table. This dish is perfect for chilly evenings, offering a sense of coziness that makes any meal feel special.

Ingredients That Shine

The beauty of this stew lies in its simple yet wholesome ingredients. Chunks of beef chuck provide a robust flavor, while pearl barley adds a delightful chewiness. Carrots and celery contribute both color and nutrition, making each spoonful a balanced bite.

Fresh herbs like thyme and rosemary infuse the stew with aromatic notes, elevating the overall taste. A touch of tomato paste rounds out the flavors, creating a rich broth that envelops the ingredients beautifully.

Cooking Process

Preparing this stew is straightforward and rewarding. Start by browning the beef in a hot pot, allowing it to develop a deep, savory crust. This step is crucial as it builds the foundation of flavor for the entire dish.

Next, sauté the vegetables until they soften, releasing their natural sweetness. Combining these elements in the pot creates a symphony of flavors that will meld together during the simmering process.

Simmering to Perfection

Once all the ingredients are combined, the magic happens during the simmering phase. Allowing the stew to cook low and slow ensures that the beef becomes tender and the barley absorbs the rich broth.

This step not only enhances the flavors but also allows the kitchen to fill with an inviting aroma that beckons everyone to come and enjoy a warm meal together.

A Touch of Freshness

Before serving, a sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a hint of brightness to the dish. This simple garnish elevates the presentation and complements the hearty flavors beautifully.

Pairing the stew with crusty bread creates the perfect combination for dipping and savoring every last drop of the rich broth.

Perfect for Any Occasion

This beef and barley stew is versatile enough for a casual family dinner or a cozy gathering with friends. Its hearty nature makes it a satisfying meal that can stand alone or be complemented with a side salad.

Whether enjoyed on a cold winter night or served at a festive gathering, this stew is sure to become a beloved staple in any kitchen. The warmth it brings is not just from the ingredients but from the shared experience of enjoying a comforting meal together.

Easy Beef and Barley Stew Recipe

This stew features chunks of beef simmered with pearl barley, carrots, celery, and onions in a rich broth. The cooking time is approximately 2 hours, and it serves 6 people.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 cup pearl barley
• 4 cups beef broth
• 2 cups water
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 2 stalks celery, diced
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Brown the Beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes and brown on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
2. Sauté Vegetables: In the same pot, add onions, carrots, celery, and garlic. Sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Combine Ingredients: Return the browned beef to the pot. Stir in the tomato paste, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Add the beef broth and water, bringing the mixture to a boil.
4. Add Barley: Once boiling, stir in the pearl barley. Reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for about 1.5 hours, or until the beef is tender and the barley is cooked.
5. Adjust Seasoning: Taste the stew and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
6. Serve: Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy hot with crusty bread.

Cook and Prep Times

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours

Nutrition Information

• Servings: 6 bowls
• Calories: 350kcal
• Fat: 15g
• Protein: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 30g