A hearty, comforting stew with tender beef, nutty barley, and vegetables simmered in a rich broth. Perfect for cold days.
20 min prep
120 min cook
6 servings
450 kcal/serving
Ingredients
2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
2 tbsp olive oil
1 large onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
3 carrots, peeled and sliced
2 celery stalks, sliced
1 cup pearl barley
6 cups beef broth
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
2 bay leaves
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Season beef cubes with salt and pepper. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat and brown beef in batches, about 4 minutes per batch. Transfer to a plate.
Reduce heat to medium. Add onion, carrots, and celery; cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook 1 minute.
Stir in barley, then add broth, tomatoes, bay leaves, thyme, and browned beef. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1 hour.
Uncover and continue simmering for 30-45 minutes, until beef is tender and barley is cooked. Remove bay leaves. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Tips
For extra depth, add 1 cup of red wine after browning beef and let it reduce before adding broth.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.
The stew thickens as it sits; add a splash of broth when reheating if needed.