This hearty beef and barley stew is like a warm hug in a bowl! With tender beef, nutty barley, and loads of veggies, it’s perfect for a cozy dinner.
I love how this stew makes the house smell amazing while it cooks. Plus, it’s so easy to make! Just let it simmer, and soon you’ll have a comforting meal ready for the family.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Stew Meat: Use chuck roast for its rich flavor and tenderness when cooked slow. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try beef sirloin or even ground beef, but remember that the texture will change.
Barley: Pearl barley is common here for its chewy texture. If you can’t find it, you could use quick-cooking barley or even quinoa for a gluten-free option, keeping in mind cooking times will vary.
Vegetables: This recipe works well with onions, carrots, and celery, often called mirepoix. Feel free to mix in other veggies like potatoes, mushrooms, or even green beans for added nutrition and flavor.
Broth: Beef broth adds depth, but you can substitute chicken broth or vegetable broth for a lighter taste. Just make sure to adjust seasoning based on which broth you use!
How Do I Get the Beef Perfectly Tender?
Getting that beef nice and tender is key for a fantastic stew. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start by browning the beef in batches. Don’t overcrowd the pan; this helps develop a rich flavor.
- Let it simmer gently. Cooking on low heat for a longer time is essential. It allows the collagen in the meat to break down and become tender.
- Be patient! Aim for at least 1 to 1 1/2 hours of cooking time. The longer, the better!
By following these steps, you’ll have melt-in-your-mouth beef in your stew! Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Beef and Barley Stew
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Stew:
- 1 1/2 pounds beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
- 3 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 cup pearl barley, rinsed
- 6 cups beef broth
- 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes (optional for a richer flavor)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This beef and barley stew will take about 15 minutes to prepare and then 1 to 1 1/2 hours to cook. So, you can expect a total of around 1 hour and 45 minutes from start to finish. A little patience goes a long way with this hearty dish, as the longer it simmers, the more flavorful it becomes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Beef:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the beef cubes in batches (don’t overcrowd the pot!). Brown them on all sides, which will take about 4-5 minutes. After browning, remove the beef and set it aside on a plate.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same pot, add your diced onion, sliced carrots, and chopped celery. Cook them together until they’re softened, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Once they’re nice and soft, stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for an extra minute until it’s fragrant.
3. Combine Everything:
Now, return the browned beef to the pot. Add in the rinsed pearl barley, beef broth, diced tomatoes (if using), dried thyme, and bay leaf. Give everything a good stir to combine all the ingredients!
4. Simmer the Stew:
Bring your stew to a gentle boil. Then, reduce the heat to low, cover it, and let it simmer. You want to simmer it for about 1 to 1 1/2 hours, or until the beef is tender and the barley is cooked through. Make sure to check on it occasionally!
5. Final Touches:
After the cooking time is up, check for flavor. Remove the bay leaf and taste the stew. Add salt and pepper as needed to enhance the flavors.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Ladle the hearty stew into bowls and garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. It’s fantastic when served warm with some crusty bread on the side. Enjoy your cozy meal!
Can I Use Different Meats for This Stew?
Absolutely! While beef stew meat is traditional, you can also use lamb or pork for a different flavor. If using chicken, opt for thighs to keep it tender, but adjust cooking times as they cook quicker than beef.
What Can I Substitute for Barley?
If you don’t have pearl barley, you can use quinoa or farro as alternatives. Just be mindful that cooking times may vary, so adjust them accordingly to ensure they’re fully cooked.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the stew in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Can I Add More Vegetables to the Stew?
Yes! Feel free to add other vegetables like potatoes, parsnips, or green beans. Just make sure to cut them into similar-sized pieces to ensure even cooking. Add them in during the last 30 minutes of cooking to keep them from becoming too mushy.
