• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound stew beef, cut into small cubes
• ¼ cup dry red wine
• 4 cups beef broth
• 6 cups water
• 2 cups carrots, chopped
• 2 cups celery, sliced
• 1 cup onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 tablespoon beef base
• 1 ½ cups barley

How to Make Beef Barley Soup:

1. In a large soup pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add stew beef and cook until browned, about two minutes.
3. Add in dry red wine, beef broth and water. Bring to a simmer, reduce heat to medium-low and cover. Continue to simmer for 1 hour.
4. Add in carrots, celery, onion, garlic, bay leaves and beef base. Cover and
   continue to simmer for another 30 minutes.
5. Add in barley, increase heat to bring to a boil. Then cover, reduce to medium-low and allow to cook until barley is soft, about 45 minutes to 1 hour.
6. Remove from heat and serve.
7. Enjoy!

FAQS:

How should I store beef barley soup?

• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. You can reheat in a saucepan on the stove over medium heat, covered.
• Freeze leftovers in an airtight freezer ziplock bag for up to three months.
• Thaw in the refrigerator a day before then follow the reheating instructions above.

What substitutions could I make?

Beef barley soup is a versatile dish, and there are several substitutions you can make to suit your dietary preferences or ingredient availability. Here are some common substitutions you can consider:

1. Beef:
   • Substitute beef with ground turkey, ground chicken, or lean ground pork for a lighter option.
   • For a vegetarian or vegan version, replace the beef with plant-based alternatives like textured vegetable protein (TVP), crumbled tempeh, or mushrooms for a meaty texture.
2. Broth:
   • Swap beef broth with vegetable broth for a vegetarian or vegan version.
   • Use chicken or mushroom broth for a different flavor profile.
3. Vegetables:
   • Customize the vegetable mix to your liking. You can add or substitute ingredients like carrots, celery, bell peppers, corn, green beans, peas, and zucchini.
4. Herbs and Seasonings:
   • Experiment with different herbs and seasonings to adjust the flavor. Thyme, rosemary, oregano, or cumin can add variety.
   • Consider using garlic powder or onion powder if you don’t have fresh garlic or onions on hand.
5. Garnishes:
   • Top your soup with a variety of garnishes, such as fresh herbs (parsley, cilantro), grated Parmesan cheese, or a dollop of sour cream.
6. Low-Sodium:
   • To reduce sodium content, use low-sodium broth or homemade broth with less salt. You can also skip adding extra salt and rely on herbs and spices for flavor.
7. Spices:
   • Adjust the level of spiciness with red pepper flakes, hot sauce, or other chili peppers if you prefer a bit of heat in your soup.

Remember to taste as you go and adjust seasonings according to your preferences. Substitutions can make your beef barley soup unique and tailored to your specific tastes and dietary requirements.

What should I serve with my beef barley soup?

Beef barley soup is a hearty and satisfying dish that pairs well with various sides to create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options to serve alongside beef barley soup:

1. Bread or Rolls: Serve crusty bread, dinner rolls, garlic bread, or a baguette on the side. It’s perfect for dipping into the soup and soaking up the delicious broth.
2. Salad: A fresh salad with crisp lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, and your favorite dressing can complement the richness of the soup. Consider a simple garden salad or a Caesar salad.
3. Grilled Cheese Sandwich: This classic sandwich, with gooey melted cheese between slices of bread, is a comforting and tasty accompaniment to beef barley soup.
4. Crackers or Croutons: Offer a bowl of assorted crackers or homemade croutons for a delightful crunchy texture to complement the soup.
5. Cornbread: The slightly sweet flavor of cornbread can be a delicious companion to the savory beef barley soup.

Choose sides based on your preferences and dietary needs. Consider the textures and flavors to create a balanced and enjoyable meal when serving beef barley soup.