On a cold day, there’s nothing quite as comforting as a bowl of hearty ground beef barley soup. Its rich aroma fills your home, promising warmth and nourishment with every bite. This classic soup combines tender beef, wholesome barley, and a medley of vegetables, creating a dish that’s as satisfying as it is delicious. Let’s dive into everything you need to know to make this comforting dish from scratch.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy and Accessible: Made with pantry staples and simple ingredients.
• Nutritious: Packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins.
• Comforting: Perfect for cozy evenings or as a make-ahead meal.
• Versatile: Easily adapted for gluten-free or vegetarian preferences.

Ingredients for Hearty Ground Beef Barley Soup

Core Ingredients

Ingredient	Quantity
Ground beef	1 pound
Onion, diced	1 cup
Carrot, diced	1 cup
Celery, diced	1 cup
Garlic, chopped	2 tablespoons
Thyme, chopped (or dried)	1 teaspoon (or 1/2 tsp)
Rosemary, chopped (or dried)	1/2 teaspoon (or 1/4 tsp)
Smoked paprika	2 teaspoons
Tomato paste	2 tablespoons
Beef broth	6 cups
Diced tomatoes (canned)	1 (14.5-ounce) can
Pearl barley	1 cup
Bay leaves	2
Balsamic vinegar	1 tablespoon
Worcestershire sauce	1 tablespoon
Fish sauce or soy sauce	1 teaspoon
Salt and pepper	To taste
Parsley, chopped (optional)	1 tablespoon

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Ground Beef

1. Heat a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart as it browns.
3. Once cooked, remove the beef from the pan and set aside. Reserve 1 tablespoon of grease in the pan for cooking the vegetables.

2. Cook the Vegetables

1. Add the diced onions, carrots, and celery to the saucepan.
2. Cook for 7-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender.

3. Build the Flavor Base

1. Stir in the chopped garlic, thyme, rosemary, smoked paprika, and tomato paste.
2. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant and well combined.

4. Assemble the Soup

1. Pour in the beef broth and diced tomatoes.
2. Add the cooked beef, pearl barley, bay leaves, balsamic vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and fish sauce.
3. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a boil.
4. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-30 minutes, or until the barley is tender.

5. Final Touches

1. Remove the bay leaves and discard.
2. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
3. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.

6. Serve and Enjoy

1. Ladle the soup into bowls and serve warm.
2. Pair with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Per Serving (1 Cup)
Calories	300
Protein	18 g
Carbohydrates	24 g
Fat	12 g
Fiber	4 g
Sodium	600 mg

Tips for Success

1. Use Lean Ground Beef: This minimizes grease and keeps the soup balanced.
2. Don’t Rush the Veggies: Cooking the vegetables slowly brings out their natural sweetness.
3. Customize the Grains: Swap barley for rice or quinoa for a gluten-free version.
4. Enhance the Flavor: Add a splash of red wine or extra balsamic vinegar for depth.
5. Meal Prep Friendly: This soup tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for meal prep.

Variations and Add-Ons

1. Vegetarian Option: Replace ground beef with lentils or a plant-based protein and use vegetable broth.
2. Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
3. Extra Vegetables: Incorporate zucchini, mushrooms, or green beans for added nutrition.
4. Creamy Version: Stir in a splash of cream or coconut milk for a rich, creamy texture.

FAQs About Hearty Ground Beef Barley Soup

1. Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, this soup stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen, making it even more delicious.

2. Can I freeze the soup?

Absolutely! Allow the soup to cool completely, then freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months.

3. How do I reheat leftovers?

Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth or water if it thickens too much.

4. Can I use quick-cooking barley?

Yes, but reduce the simmering time to about 10-15 minutes to prevent overcooking.

5. What can I use instead of fish sauce?

Soy sauce, tamari, or coconut aminos are excellent substitutes.

6. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes, brown the beef and sauté the veggies first, then transfer all ingredients to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

Conclusion: A Bowl of Comfort Awaits

Hearty ground beef barley soup is the ultimate comfort food, blending rich flavors, wholesome ingredients, and satisfying textures. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or serving a hungry family, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Try this recipe today, and let the warmth and flavor of this classic soup brighten your day. Don’t forget to share your creation with loved ones for an even cozier experience!

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