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To achieve a harmonious flavor profile in your Hearty Beef & Barley Delight, it's essential to focus on the layering of flavors. Start by sautéing your aromatics—onions, carrots, and garlic—in a bit of oil before adding the beef. This technique allows the natural sugars in the vegetables to caramelize, enhancing their sweetness and building a robust base for your dish.

Classic Beef & Barley Soup

Warm up with a bowl of Hearty Beef & Barley Delight, a comforting soup perfect for any season. This nourishing dish features tender beef, wholesome barley, and a blend of aromatic vegetables that come together to create a rich, flavorful broth. Packed with protein, vitamins, and essential nutrients, it's a meal the whole family will love. Discover step-by-step instructions for this easy recipe that promises to bring joy and warmth to your dining table.
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Ingredients
  

1 lb (450g) beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 large onion, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

3 medium carrots, sliced

2 ribs celery, diced

1 cup (150g) pearl barley, rinsed

6 cups (1.5L) beef broth

1 cup (240ml) water

2 bay leaves

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1 teaspoon dried rosemary

Salt and pepper to taste

1 cup (150g) frozen peas (optional)

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Sear the Beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes and season with salt and pepper. Sear the meat until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the beef and set aside.

    Sauté Aromatics: In the same pot, add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes or until the vegetables begin to soften. Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

      Combine Ingredients: Return the seared beef to the pot. Stir in the rinsed pearl barley, beef broth, and water. Toss in the bay leaves, thyme, and rosemary. Bring the mixture to a boil.

        Simmer the Soup: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let simmer for about 1 hour, or until the barley and beef are tender. Stir occasionally, and add more water if needed for a thinner soup.

          Add Peas: If using frozen peas, stir them into the soup during the last 5 minutes of cooking. This adds a nice sweetness and color.

            Final Adjustments: Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if desired. Remove bay leaves before serving.

              Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of freshness.

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 mins | 1 hr 15 mins | 6 servings