Warm your soul with a bowl of hearty Beef Barley Lentil Soup, a classic American dish that promises to comfort and satisfy even the pickiest eaters! With tender beef, nutty barley, and protein-packed lentils simmered to perfection, this recipe is not just a meal; it's an experience. Imagine the aroma wafting through your kitchen as you create a dish that’s perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings. Ready to dive into a recipe that’s as easy to make as it is delicious? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs
Total Time: 1 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb beef stew meat, cubed
- 1/2 cup barley
- 1 cup lentils, rinsed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 6 cups beef broth
- 1 teaspoon bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Pat the beef stew meat dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper
- Heat a large heavy-bottomed soup pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of olive oil
- Brown the beef cubes in batches, ensuring each piece develops a deep golden-brown crust, about 3-4 minutes per side
- Remove browned beef and set aside, then add chopped onions, carrots, and celery to the same pot
- Sauté the vegetables until onions become translucent and slightly softened, approximately 5-6 minutes
- Return the browned beef to the pot and add beef broth, barley, lentils, and bay leaf
- Bring the mixture to a full boil, then reduce heat to low and cover the pot
- Simmer the soup gently for 1 hour, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking
- Check that barley and lentils are tender, and beef is fall-apart soft
- Remove bay leaf, taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed
- Let the soup rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld
- Serve hot in deep bowls, optionally garnished with fresh parsley
Tips
- Choose Quality Beef: Opt for well-marbled beef stew meat for a richer flavor and tenderness. The fat will render down during cooking, enhancing the soup's overall taste.
- Prep Ahead: Chop your vegetables and rinse the lentils ahead of time. This will streamline your cooking process and make it easier to throw everything together.
- Don’t Rush the Browning: Take your time browning the beef in batches. This step is crucial for developing a deep, savory flavor that will elevate your soup.
- Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a thicker soup, feel free to add a bit more barley or lentils. For a thinner soup, simply add more beef broth.
- Flavor Boost: Experiment with additional herbs like thyme or rosemary for an extra layer of flavor. A splash of red wine can also enhance the richness of the broth.
- Let it Rest: Allowing the soup to rest for 10 minutes before serving helps the flavors meld beautifully, resulting in a more delicious dish.
- Garnish for Freshness: Don’t forget to garnish with fresh parsley before serving. It adds a pop of color and a burst of freshness that complements the hearty soup.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 65mg
