Slow Cooker Beef and Barley Soup: A Hearty and Flavorful Meal



Slow Cooker Beef and Barley Soup is the perfect dish for a cozy meal on a chilly day. Packed with tender beef, wholesome barley, and a medley of vegetables, this soup is as nutritious as it is delicious. The slow cooker method allows the flavors to deepen over time, resulting in a rich and satisfying dish. Here’s a detailed step-by-step guide to making this comforting soup.

Ingredients

For the Soup:

  • 1 pound beef stew meat, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
  • 2 stalks celery, diced
  • 1 cup pearl barley, rinsed
  • 6 cups beef broth
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juice
  • 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

Seasonings:

  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • 1 bay leaf
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Optional Garnish:

  • Fresh parsley, chopped
  • Grated Parmesan cheese
  • Crusty bread for serving

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

  1. Dice the beef stew meat into bite-sized pieces if not already pre-cut.
  2. Wash and chop all the vegetables: onions, garlic, carrots, celery, and potatoes.

Step 2: Sear the Beef (Optional but Recommended)

  1. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.