Appetizer & Dessert

Beef Barley Soup Recipe – Recipes From Chef

Name: Beef Barley Soup Recipe – Recipes From Chef
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Yield: 8
Ingredients: 6 cups low-sodium beef stock; 2 cups shredded cooked beef; 14 1/2 ounces canned petite diced tomatoes with juice; 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil; 1 medium onion, finely chopped; 1 garlic clove, minced; 2 medium carrots, thinly sliced; 1 celery stalk, thinly sliced; 1/2 green bell pepper, diced; 2/3 cup pearl barley; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; 1 teaspoon soy sauce; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 packet beef-flavored gravy mix; 1 bay leaf; 2 tablespoons dry red wine; 2 tablespoons fresh chopped parsley or 2 teaspoons dried parsley; Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Rosa Crumley June 1, 2025

Servings: 8 Total Time: 1 hr 10 mins Difficulty: Intermediate

Jump To Recipe Print Recipe

Beef barley soup is hearty and comforting, best paired with warm, crusty bread for dipping and extra texture. This combo makes every spoonful more satisfying.

A simple mixed greens salad with lemon vinaigrette adds a fresh, bright contrast that balances the soup’s richness perfectly.

For a touch of elegance, serve a cheese platter with sharp cheddar and creamy Gouda, paired with sliced apples. Roasted seasonal vegetables bring earthy flavors that complement the meal beautifully.

What is Beef Barley Soup?

Beef barley soup is a traditional dish that hails from various cultures and has a charm of its own. It combines tender beef, chewy pearl barley, and a medley of vegetables in a savory broth.

Originally designed to be filling and hearty, it quickly became a staple in homes around the world. On cold days, a warm bowl brings comfort, while its nutritional profile ensures you’re not just indulging but also nourishing your body.

Why This Recipe Works?

Here are four compelling reasons this beef barley soup recipe deserves a spot in your kitchen:

Packed with Nutrients: The combination of beef and barley offers a significant protein boost. Add in vegetables like carrots, celery, and onions, and you have a well-rounded meal that fuels your body.
Easy Preparation: With a few simple steps, you can have a hearty soup ready in no time. Ideal for meal prep, this recipe allows you to make a batch and store it for later, saving you time on busy days.
Flavorful Depth: Thanks to ingredients like Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, and fresh herbs, this soup is never bland. Each spoonful offers a burst of flavor that keeps it exciting.
Customizable: This recipe is incredibly versatile. You can easily swap ingredients based on what’s in your fridge or your personal taste. Want to add mushrooms? Go for it! Prefer quinoa over barley? The choice is yours.

Ingredients You’ll Need To Make This Beef Barley Soup

Before embarking on this culinary adventure, gather your supplies. Here’s what you’ll need:

6 cups low-sodium beef stock
2 cups shredded cooked beef
14 ½ ounces canned petite diced tomatoes with juice (1 can)
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
1 medium onion, finely chopped
1 garlic clove, minced
2 medium carrots, thinly sliced
1 celery stalk, thinly sliced
½ green bell pepper, diced
⅔ cup pearl barley
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon soy sauce
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
¼ teaspoon dried thyme
1 packet beef-flavored gravy mix
1 bay leaf
2 tablespoons dry red wine
2 tablespoons fresh chopped parsley or 2 teaspoons dried parsley
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

How To Make This Beef Barley Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced bell pepper. Sauté until the onion turns translucent. This usually takes about 4-5 minutes. The aroma will start to fill your kitchen, and believe me, it’s just the beginning!

Step 2: Add Vegetables

Stir in the sliced carrots and celery. Cook for another 5-6 minutes until they soften slightly. You’re building layers of flavor at this stage, so don’t rush!

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Next, add the shredded beef to the pot. Incorporate the diced tomatoes (with their juice), beef stock, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, smoked paprika, thyme, and the packet of beef gravy mix. Don’t forget the bay leaf! Stir everything well to combine.

Step 4: Bring to a Boil

Increase the heat to high and bring the soup to a boil. Once it’s bubbling, reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for about 20 minutes, allowing all those wonderful flavors to meld together.

Step 5: Add Barley

After your soup has simmered, add the pearl barley. Continue to cook the mixture for another 30-40 minutes. The barley will cook through and become delightfully chewy, soaking up all those rich flavors.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

When the barley is tender, stir in the dry red wine and chopped parsley. Taste and add salt and pepper to your liking. Remove the bay leaf, and you’re ready to serve! Ladle into bowls and watch as everyone gathers around for the anticipation.

Tips for Perfect Beef Barley Soup

Achieving the perfect beef barley soup isn’t just about following the recipe. Here are some handy tips:

Choose Quality Beef: Using well-cooked, tender beef makes a difference. Leftover roast beef or even brisket works beautifully.
Don’t Skip the Herbs: Fresh or dried herbs elevate flavor. If using fresh, add them at the end for a bright finish.
Adjust the Consistency: If you prefer a thicker soup, let it simmer longer. Conversely, add more stock if you like it thinner.
Consider a Slow Cooker: If you’re not in a rush, you can throw everything in a slow cooker for 6-8 hours. Walk away and let it do its magic!
Taste as You Go: Always taste your soup as it’s cooking. It’s the best way to achieve a balance of flavors that you enjoy.

How to Store the Leftovers?

You’ll likely have some soup left after a big pot. To store it:

Cool It Down: Allow the soup to cool to room temperature before transferring it to containers.
In the Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing: You can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just ensure it’s in a freezer-safe container! When reheating, add a bit of water, as the barley will absorb more liquid over time.

Recommended Side Dishes for Beef Barley Soup

Pairing side dishes with this main course can enhance your meal. Here are four scrumptious suggestions:

Garlic Bread: Nothing beats the aroma of freshly baked garlic bread. The buttery, garlicky flavor complements the soup beautifully.
Caesar Salad: A Caesar salad, with its crispy romaine, crunchy croutons, and tangy dressing, provides a zesty contrast to the hearty soup.
Homemade Biscuits: Soft, flaky biscuits are perfect for soaking up every last drop of your soup. They’re comfort food at its finest.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These little cabbages caramelize beautifully in the oven. Toss them with a bit of balsamic vinegar for added flavor.

Substitute Options for Ingredients

Not all of these ingredients might be sitting in your pantry, and that’s okay! Here are some easy substitutes:

Beef Stock: If you’re short on beef stock, chicken stock or vegetable broth can work in a pinch.
Pearl Barley: Quinoa or farro can replace pearl barley for a different texture while maintaining the dish’s integrity.
Fresh Parsley: If you’re lacking fresh parsley, dried parsley can suffice; just use less, as dried herbs are more concentrated.
Tomatoes: If you don’t have canned tomatoes, consider using fresh diced tomatoes. Just be aware that you might need to adjust cooking time due to the moisture content.

Conclusion

As we wrap up this culinary journey, I hope you’re feeling inspired to create your own pot of beef barley soup.

This dish not only warms the body but also fills the heart. Whether you’re feeding a family or enjoying a solo meal, the flavors and textures in this soup will surely bring joy to any table.

So, next time you find yourself craving comfort food, remember this recipe. It’s more than just a meal. It’s a cherished tradition, a little bit of love served in a bowl. Happy cooking!

You’ll also like the following recipes!

Print Recipe

Beef Barley Soup Recipe – Recipes From Chef

Author: Rosa Crumley Cuisine: American Courses: Appetizer & Dessert

Difficulty: Intermediate Prep Time 20 mins Cook Time 50 mins Total Time 1 hr 10 mins

Servings: 8 Calories: 204 kcal

Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

Description

Welcome to a cozy corner of my kitchen, where today we’re diving into a timeless classic: Beef Barley Soup. Imagine a chilly evening. You come home to the smell of savory beef simmering with hearty barley, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs.

This soup transcends simple nourishment; it's a hug in a bowl. It’s packed with protein, fiber, and plenty of flavors.

But what makes this beef barley soup stand out? Buckle up, because I’m about to share the magic behind this dish and how it aligns perfectly with your busy lifestyle.