Ground Beef Barley Soup Recipe – Easy Comfort Food Recipes

You might be asking yourself, “What should I serve with ground beef barley soup?” Well, let me tell you. This hearty soup is a meal all by itself. However, if you want to elevate it, consider adding a side of crusty bread or a fresh garden salad. 

A simple garlic bread complements the rich flavors of the soup beautifully. For a refreshing twist, a light green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can balance its hearty taste. Maybe swap ideas with friends over a glass of red wine – a classic Chianti works wonders here. 

And, for those chilly days when comfort food beckons, you could even whip up some cheesy quesadillas. Now, let’s get into the delicious details of our star dish!

What is Ground Beef Barley Soup?

Ground beef barley soup is a savory mixture of ground beef, barley, and an array of vegetables. It thrives in a savory broth, infused with spices that bring everything together. 

Plus, barley adds a delightful chewiness, transforming the soup into a heartwarming meal. This isn’t your average soup; it’s a meal that hugs you from the inside.

Originating from hearty cuisines around the world, barley soup topped with ground beef is a comfort dish that many generations enjoy.

You can find variations, but the essence remains the same: a delicious blend of ingredients that come together to create something wholesome.

Why You’ll Love This Ground Beef Barley Soup

Now, let’s break down why this soup deserves a spot in your recipe book. First off, it’s incredibly comforting. After a long day, there’s nothing like curling up with a warm bowl, feeling the flavors fill your senses. 

You’ll appreciate the rich taste of the ground beef mingled with the earthiness of the barley and veggies.

Plus, it’s nutritious. Each bowl packs a punch of protein from the beef, fiber from the barley, and essential vitamins from the vegetables. It’s like giving your body a warm hug while keeping it happy and healthy!

On top of that, it’s versatile. Swap ingredients based on what you have at hand. Don’t have carrots? Throw in some spinach instead! This adaptability is what makes ground beef barley soup a kitchen favorite.

Finally, it’s simple to make. You get a hearty meal with relatively little effort. Everything comes together in a pot, making cleanup a breeze. Don’t you just love it when dinner practically cooks itself?

The Ingredients You Will Need to Make Ground Beef Barley Soup

Let’s gather our weapons of cooking magic! Here’s what you’ll need:

– 1 lb. lean ground beef  

– 2 tsp. + 1 tsp. extra virgin olive oil  

– 1 large onion, diced  

– 2 tablespoons garlic, minced  

– 6 cups homemade beef stock or store-bought beef broth  

– 4 cups vegetable stock  

– 1 cup finely diced celery  

– 1 cup finely diced carrots  

– ½ cup pearl barley  

– 2 tsp. dried Italian parsley  

– ½ tsp. dried thyme  

– 2 tablespoons aged balsamic vinegar  

– Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste  

– 1 tablespoon tomato paste  

– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

Directions

Cooking this soup is simple and rewarding. Let’s break it down step by step.

Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a large pot, heat 2 teaspoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it’s thoroughly browned. Stir it often to break it up. 

Once it’s browned and no longer pink, drain the excess fat. This step infuses rich flavor into your base.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Add in the diced onion, minced garlic, celery, and carrots to the pot. Drizzle with 1 teaspoon of olive oil and sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables soften. 

The smells will start wafting through your kitchen, and trust me, it’s going to be a good day!

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Pour in the beef stock, vegetable stock, and stir well. Add the pearl barley, dried parsley, dried thyme, tomato paste, balsamic vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together, bringing it to a gentle simmer.

Step 4: Simmer

Let the soup simmer on low heat for about 30-40 minutes. This allows the barley to absorb the broth and the flavors to meld together. You’ll want to check it occasionally, and give it a gentle stir.

Step 5: Adjust Seasoning

After simmering, taste your creation. You might want to adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or a splash more vinegar, depending on your preference.

Step 6: Serve

Once everything smells heavenly and the barley is tender, serve it up in bowls. Enjoy it hot, sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for a little flair, and get ready to dig in!

Notes

Here are some tips that will enhance your soup-making experience:

• Use Quality Stock: Good broth makes a difference. If you have homemade stock, use it!
  
• Fresh Ingredients Matter: Opt for fresh vegetables whenever possible. Their natural flavors shine through.
  
• Storage is Key: If you have leftovers, cool and store them in airtight containers. They last well in the fridge for 3-4 days.
  
• Vegetarian Option: For a meatless version, use lentils or chickpeas instead of beef. You’ll need to adjust cooking times and increase seasoning to compensate for flavor.
  
• Freezing for a Rainy Day: Freeze in individual servings to enjoy later. Defrost properly before reheating.
  

Storage Tips

Thinking of making a big batch? Here’s how to store this delightful soup:

• Refrigeration: Store leftover soup in an airtight container. It stays fresh in the fridge for up to 4 days.
  
• Freezing: To freeze, let the soup cool completely. Portion it into freezer-safe containers. It keeps well for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
  
• Reheating: When ready to enjoy, simply heat your desired amount on the stove over medium-low, stirring occasionally. You might want to add a splash of water or broth if it thickens too much from freezing.
  

Serving Suggestions

When serving your ground beef barley soup, consider pairing it with these:

1. Crusty Bread: A warm, thick slice of bread is perfect for soaking up the soup.
   
2. Garden Salad: A crisp salad with tangy vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the soup beautifully.
   
3. Cheesy Quesadillas: Serve with gooey, melted cheese quesadillas for a comforting meal.
   
4. Garlic Bread: The buttery, garlicky flavor of garlic bread works wonders as an accompaniment.
   
5. Red Wine: A glass of red wine, like Chianti, enhances the meal experience and complements the flavors nicely.
   

What Other Substitutes Can I Use in Ground Beef Barley Soup?

Need alternatives? Here are some substitutes that work great in this recipe:

1. Ground Turkey: For a leaner option, swap ground beef for ground turkey. It offers similar protein without the extra fat.
   
2. Quinoa: Instead of barley, try quinoa for those seeking a gluten-free option. Adjust cooking time as quinoa cooks faster.
   
3. Chickpeas: For added protein, replace the beef with canned chickpeas. Be sure to season well since they absorb flavors differently.
   
4. Vegetable Broth: Use only vegetable stock for a vegetarian twist. Combine it with an assortment of vegetables to make it hearty.
   
5. Spices: Experiment with spices like paprika or cumin for a different flavor profile. They add warmth and depth.
   

Conclusion

Ground beef barley soup isn’t just a dish; it’s part of storytelling through food. It warms hearts while filling bellies, making it perfect for cold evenings or gatherings with loved ones. With its hearty ingredients and easy preparation, you’ll find yourself coming back to it time and time again. 

Whether you savor a bowl by yourself, share it with family, or serve it on special occasions, this recipe holds a special place in many kitchens – including mine. Next time you’re in need of a nourishing meal, think of this soup! You’ll find it comforting, satisfying, and oh-so-delicious. 

Happy cooking!

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