Cozy Slow Cooked Beef

Cozy Slow-Cooked Beef & Barley Comfort Bowl

Craving something hearty and nourishing? This slow cooker beef barley soup is packed with tender chunks of beef, wholesome veggies, and perfectly cooked barley. Let it simmer all day while the flavors meld into a soul-warming meal you’ll want on repeat! Ideal for chilly days or a comforting family dinner.

Ingredients:

2 lbs beef, cubed, suitable for stewing

Salt and pepper to taste

10 cups water

2 tbsp oil

3 tbsp beef stock (premium quality)

2 cups chopped celery (or 3 stalks)

½ onion, finely chopped

5 garlic cloves, finely chopped

2 large potatoes, peeled and diced

3-4 large carrots, peeled and shredded (about 2 cups)

1 cup pearl barley, rinsed

Instructions:

Season Beef: Sprinkle salt and pepper on beef cubes to taste.

Sear Beef: In a large pot, heat oil over medium-high. When hot, add one-third of the beef cubes, browning them on all sides, then transfer to a plate. Repeat with the remaining beef in batches.

Start the Soup Base: Once all beef is browned, return it to the pot. Add 10 cups of water and beef stock, then bring to a boil.

Add Vegetables: Add chopped celery, onions, and garlic. Lower the heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for about 2 hours.

Add Potatoes and Carrots: Once beef is tender, add potatoes and carrots. Simmer for an additional 30-45 minutes until vegetables are soft.

Add Barley: Stir in the rinsed barley and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 30 minutes until the barley is tender.

Slow Cooker Method:

Prepare Beef: Brown the beef as above, then transfer it to a slow cooker.

Combine Ingredients: Boil 2 cups of water and pour it into the pan to deglaze. Add this to the slow cooker along with the remaining water, beef stock, celery, onions, and garlic. Stir well.

Cook in Slow Cooker: Cook on low for 6 hours.

Add Vegetables: Add potatoes and carrots, continue cooking for 1 more hour.

Finish with Barley: Add barley in the final hour, cooking until it’s tender.