Beef Barley Soup

Beef Barley Soup Recipe with Green Beans

Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 2 hours | Servings: 6

Introduction

Beef Barley Soup is a hearty and comforting dish that has been a staple in many cultures for centuries. This recipe combines tender beef shank with nutritious barley, vegetables, and a blend of spices to create a rich and flavorful soup. Perfect for chilly days, this soup is not only satisfying but also packed with nutrients. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is straightforward and will guide you through making a delicious pot of Beef Barley Soup that everyone will love.

History

The origins of Beef Barley Soup can be traced back to the medieval times when it was a popular dish among peasants in Europe. Barley, being one of the oldest consumed grains in the world, was a staple food for many cultures due to its adaptability to different climates and its nutritional value. Over the years, the recipe has evolved and spread across the globe, with each region adding its own unique twist to the classic dish. Today, Beef Barley Soup remains a beloved comfort food in many households, cherished for its rich flavors and nourishing ingredients.

Ingredients

3 lb (1.36 kg) beef shank cross cuts, cut 1 inch thick
1 tbsp vegetable oil
1 medium onion, chopped
0.5 cup chopped carrot
0.5 cup chopped celery with leaves
3 cloves garlic, minced
5 cup water
1.5 tsp salt
1.5 tsp dried thyme leaves
0.5 tsp pepper
1 bay leaf
0.33 cup medium pearl barley
1 package (9 oz (255 g)) frozen French-cut green beans

How to prepare

Heat oil in a Dutch oven over medium heat until hot.
Add onion, carrot, celery, and garlic; cook and stir for 5 minutes or until tender.
Add beef shank cross cuts, water, salt, thyme, pepper, and bay leaf; bring to a boil.
Reduce heat, cover tightly, and simmer for 1 hour.
Remove cross cuts from the Dutch oven.
Cut beef from bones; cut beef into 0.75 inch pieces.
Skim and discard fat from the soup.
Return beef to the Dutch oven; stir in barley.
Cover and simmer for 50 to 60 minutes or until beef and barley are tender.
Add green beans; bring to a boil.
Reduce heat and simmer for 2 to 3 minutes or until beans are tender.
Discard the bay leaf.

Variations

1. For a vegetarian version, omit the beef and use vegetable broth. Add more vegetables like mushrooms, potatoes, or squash to make the soup hearty.
2. To make a creamy Beef Barley Soup, stir in a splash of cream or milk towards the end of cooking.
3. For a spicier version, add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or some diced jalapeños when sautéing the vegetables.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

1. For the best flavor, brown the beef shank pieces on all sides before adding them to the soup. This step adds depth to the soup's flavor.

2. Use fresh vegetables for the best taste and nutritional value. However, in a pinch, frozen vegetables can work as well.

3. To achieve a thicker soup, you can increase the amount of barley. Just remember that barley absorbs a lot of liquid, so you may need to adjust the water accordingly.

4. If you prefer a clearer soup, you can strain the broth after cooking the beef and before adding the other ingredients.

5. Don't skip the step of skimming the fat from the soup; it makes the soup healthier and more appealing.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Beef Barley Soup hot, garnished with fresh parsley or thyme for an added touch of flavor. It pairs well with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. For a heartier dish, you can also serve it alongside a sandwich or a grilled cheese.

Cooking Techniques

The key technique in this recipe is simmering, which allows the flavors to meld together and the beef to become tender. Another important technique is sautéing the vegetables before adding them to the soup, which enhances their flavor and sweetness.

Ingredient Substitutions

1. If beef shank is not available, you can use other cuts of beef suitable for stewing, such as chuck roast or brisket.

2. Pearl barley can be substituted with other grains like farro, brown rice, or quinoa for a different texture and flavor.

3. Frozen green beans can be replaced with fresh ones or other seasonal vegetables like peas or corn.

Make Ahead Tips

Beef Barley Soup can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over medium heat until hot, adding a little water or broth if the soup has thickened too much.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the soup in a deep bowl with a garnish of fresh herbs on top. For an elegant touch, drizzle a small amount of high-quality olive oil over the soup before serving. Accompany with a slice of artisan bread or a rustic roll for dipping.

Pairing Recommendations

Beef Barley Soup pairs well with a robust red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot, which complements the richness of the beef. For a non-alcoholic option, a hearty bread or a simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing makes a great accompaniment.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen, then warm on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add a bit of water or broth if needed to adjust the consistency.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A serving of Beef Barley Soup contains approximately 250 calories, making it a filling yet moderate-calorie option for a meal. The balance of protein, carbohydrates, and fats, along with the high fiber content, makes it satisfying and nourishing.

Carbohydrates

A serving of Beef Barley Soup contains approximately 22 grams of carbohydrates. The primary source of carbohydrates in this recipe is the barley, which is a whole grain providing fiber, vitamins, and minerals. The vegetables also contribute a small amount of carbohydrates, along with fiber and nutrients.

Fats

This soup is relatively low in fat, with about 8 grams per serving. The majority of the fat comes from the beef shank and the vegetable oil used for sautéing. Skimming the fat from the soup as directed in the recipe helps to reduce the fat content, making it a healthier option.

Proteins

Beef Barley Soup is an excellent source of protein, with approximately 30 grams per serving. The beef shank provides high-quality protein that is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body. The barley also contributes a small amount of protein, making this dish a great option for a protein-rich meal.

Vitamins and minerals

This soup is packed with vitamins and minerals, thanks to the variety of ingredients used. The beef provides iron and zinc, while the barley is a good source of selenium, manganese, and B vitamins. The vegetables add vitamins A and C, potassium, and dietary fiber to the mix, making this soup a nutritional powerhouse.

Alergens

The primary allergen to be aware of in this recipe is gluten, which is present in barley. Individuals with gluten sensitivity or celiac disease should avoid this soup or consider substituting the barley with a gluten-free grain like quinoa or rice.

Summary

Overall, Beef Barley Soup is a nutritious and balanced meal. It provides a good mix of protein, carbohydrates, and fats, along with a variety of vitamins and minerals. It's a high-fiber, moderate-calorie dish that can fit into many dietary needs, making it a versatile and healthy option.

Summary

Beef Barley Soup is a classic, nourishing dish that's perfect for any occasion. With its rich flavors, high nutritional value, and comforting warmth, it's sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Whether you stick to the traditional recipe or experiment with variations, this soup is a versatile and satisfying meal that embodies the essence of home-cooked comfort.

How did I get this recipe?

I recall the feeling of curiosity that washed over me when I found this recipe for Beef Barley Soup. It was tucked away in an old cookbook that I had inherited from my own grandmother, a treasure trove of delicious recipes and culinary wisdom. As I read through the ingredients and instructions, I couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement at the prospect of creating such a hearty and comforting dish.

I had always loved cooking, ever since I was a young girl helping my own mother in the kitchen. I was fascinated by the way that simple ingredients could be transformed into something truly special with just a little time and care. Over the years, I had collected recipes from various places and people, each one holding a special place in my heart.

But there was something about this recipe for Beef Barley Soup that stood out to me. Perhaps it was the combination of tender beef, hearty barley, and flavorful vegetables that appealed to me. Or maybe it was the warm memories of my grandmother's cooking that it evoked. Whatever the reason, I knew that I had to give it a try.

I set to work gathering the ingredients, carefully measuring out each one as I went along. The beef was seasoned with salt and pepper and browned in a hot skillet, filling the kitchen with a delicious aroma. As I chopped onions, carrots, and celery, I thought back to the many hours I had spent in this kitchen, cooking and baking with my own children and grandchildren.

Once the beef was browned and the vegetables softened, I added in some beef broth and water, along with a generous helping of barley. I let the soup simmer on the stove, the flavors mingling and melding together to create a rich and satisfying broth. As I stirred the pot, I thought about all of the meals I had cooked over the years, the laughter and love that had filled this kitchen.

Finally, after letting the soup simmer for a while, I ladled it into bowls and garnished it with a sprinkle of fresh parsley. I took a tentative sip, the warm broth warming me from the inside out. The flavors were perfection – savory and comforting, just like a hug in a bowl.

As I sat down to enjoy my Beef Barley Soup, I couldn't help but smile. This recipe was more than just a collection of ingredients and instructions – it was a connection to my past, a reminder of the love and traditions that had been passed down through generations.

And as I savored each spoonful, I knew that this recipe would become a new favorite in my own collection. It would be shared with friends and family, passed along to my children and grandchildren, a reminder of the joy that can be found in a simple bowl of soup.

So here I sit, a pot of Beef Barley Soup simmering on the stove, my heart full of memories and gratitude. And as I take another sip, I can't help but feel thankful for the simple pleasures of good food and good company. Life is good, and I am blessed.