Indulge in the warmth and comfort of a hearty Beef & Barley Soup prepared effortlessly in your crockpot. This soul-soothing recipe combines the richness of boneless chuck roast with a medley of vegetables and the wholesome goodness of pearl barley. Set it and forget it as your kitchen is filled with the tantalizing aroma of this slow-cooked masterpiece. Let’s delve into the details of creating this savory delight.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless chuck roast, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 1/2 cups carrots, thinly sliced
- 1 1/2 cups celery, thinly sliced
- 2/3 cup onion, chopped
- 10-12 mushrooms, sliced
- 2 tablespoons beef base (distinct from beef broth, as it’s a base for making broth)
- 8-10 cups water
- 1 or 2 large bay leaves
- 1 cup uncooked pearl barley
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1 tablespoon garlic
Directions:
- Brown the chuck roast in a skillet until it’s well-browned, stirring frequently to ensure an even sear.
- Remove the browned beef from the pan and transfer it to the crockpot.
- Add the thinly sliced carrots, celery, chopped onion, and sliced mushrooms to the crockpot.
- In a separate bowl, mix the beef base with water to create a flavorful broth. Pour this broth into the crockpot.
- Add the bay leaves, uncooked pearl barley, garlic, salt, and pepper to the crockpot.
- Set the crockpot on high heat and cook for 2 hours. After 2 hours, add the pearl barley, then turn down the heat to low. Continue cooking until the vegetables and beef are tender.
- Once the soup reaches the desired tenderness, stir in the salt and pepper to enhance the flavors.
- Before serving, don’t forget to remove and discard the bay leaves.
Conclusion: In just a few simple steps, you’ve created a wholesome and delicious Beef & Barley Soup that’s perfect for chilly days or anytime you crave a comforting bowl of goodness. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in a hearty and satisfying dish. Ladle this nourishing soup into bowls, savor the warmth, and relish in the delight of a homemade meal that is as easy to make as it is delightful to enjoy. Get ready to fall in love with the simplicity and heartiness of this classic Beef & Barley Soup!
