Beef and Barley Stew

Warm up your winter evenings with this hearty Beef and Barley Stew recipe that will fill your home with delicious aromas and your belly with comfort.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb beef stew meat, cut into small chunks
• 1 cup barley
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 can diced tomatoes
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

• In a large pot, brown the beef stew meat over medium heat.
• Add in the onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until vegetables are tender.
• Stir in the beef broth, barley, diced tomatoes, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper.
• Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally.
• Once the beef is tender and the barley is cooked, adjust seasoning to taste.
• Serve hot and enjoy!

Nutrition Information:

• Calories: 350
• Total Fat: 12g
• Cholesterol: 70mg
• Sodium: 800mg
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Protein: 25g

Popular questions:

• Can I use chicken broth instead of beef broth?
• Yes, you can substitute chicken broth for beef broth if you prefer a milder flavor.
• Can I use stewing beef instead of beef stew meat?
• Yes, stewing beef can be used as a substitute, but it may require longer cooking time.
• Can I add other vegetables to this stew?
• Absolutely, feel free to customize the stew with your favorite vegetables like potatoes, peas, or mushrooms.
• How can I make this stew thicker?
• You can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the stew to thicken it.
• Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?
• Yes, you can transfer the cooked ingredients to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
• Is barley gluten-free?
• No, barley contains gluten, so it is not suitable for those with gluten intolerance.
• Can I freeze this stew?
• Yes, this stew freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to airtight containers and freezing for up to 3 months.
• How long will this stew last in the refrigerator?
• This stew can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
• Can I use pearled barley instead of hulled barley?
• Yes, pearled barley cooks faster than hulled barley and can be used as a substitute.
• How can I add extra flavor to this stew?
• Try adding a splash of red wine or Worcestershire sauce for added depth of flavor.

Helpful tips:

• For enhanced flavor, brown the beef before adding the vegetables.
• Add a bay leaf while simmering for additional depth of flavor.
• Top the stew with fresh parsley before serving for a pop of color.
• Serve the stew with crusty bread for dipping and soaking up the delicious broth.
• To cut down on cooking time, use a pressure cooker to make this stew in under an hour.
• Feel free to add a splash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
• Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or oregano for a unique flavor profile.
• Consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar for a tangy twist.
• To make this stew vegetarian, substitute the beef with mushrooms or lentils for a meat-free version.
• Don’t forget to taste and adjust the seasoning before serving to ensure the flavors are well-balanced.

Expert Secrets:

• Allow the stew to cool and rest for a few hours before reheating to allow the flavors to develop further.
• Try adding a handful of frozen peas or corn towards the end of cooking for additional sweetness and texture.
• To achieve a richer broth, add a spoonful of tomato paste or a splash of red wine during cooking.
• For a heartier stew, consider adding diced potatoes or sweet potatoes for extra substance.
• To intensify the beef flavor, sear the beef in batches to ensure a nice crust forms before adding to the stew.
• For a thicker stew, remove some of the cooked beef and vegetables, blend them until smooth, then return to the pot to thicken the broth.
• For a smoky flavor, add a dash of smoked paprika or liquid smoke to the stew.
• To make this stew more filling, add a can of drained and rinsed beans like kidney beans or chickpeas.
• Consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce for a savory umami taste.
• Experiment with different types of barley such as quick-cooking barley or pearl barley for varied textures.