beef barley soup recipe canadian living

The Heartwarming Canadian Beef Barley Soup Recipe

When the cold winter winds start to howl, there's nothing like a warm, comforting bowl of beef barley soup to soothe the soul. This classic Canadian recipe is a staple of many households, and for good reason – it's easy to make, packed with nutrients, and utterly delicious. In this article, we'll explore the perfect beef barley soup recipe, courtesy of Canadian Living, that's sure to become a new family favorite.

The Magic of Barley in Soup

Barley is often overlooked as a key ingredient in soups, but it adds a unique texture and depth of flavor that's hard to replicate with other grains. In this recipe, the barley is cooked to perfection, providing a creamy, slightly chewy contrast to the tender chunks of beef. Plus, barley is an excellent source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making it a nutritious addition to this hearty soup.

The Canadian Living Recipe

This beef barley soup recipe from Canadian Living is a masterclass in simplicity and flavor. With just a few ingredients, you'll be able to create a rich, satisfying soup that's perfect for a cozy night in. Here's what you'll need:

- 1 pound beef stew meat (such as chuck or round)

- 2 medium onions, chopped

- 3 cloves garlic, minced

- 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped

- 2 stalks celery, chopped

- 1 cup pearl barley

- 4 cups beef broth

- 2 cups water

- 1 teaspoon dried thyme

- Salt and pepper, to taste

Let's Get Cooking!

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a couple of tablespoons of oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onions and cook until they're softened and lightly browned, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.

Add the beef to the pot, browning it on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the browned beef from the pot and set it aside. Add the chopped carrots and celery to the pot, cooking until they're tender, about 5 minutes.

Add the pearl barley, beef broth, water, and thyme to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer, covered, for 1 1/2 hours, or until the barley is tender. Return the browned beef to the pot and simmer for an additional 30 minutes, until the soup has thickened slightly.

Serve and Enjoy!

Serve the beef barley soup hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs, if desired. This recipe makes 6-8 servings, so feel free to share with friends and family, or enjoy the leftovers for days to come. As the cold winter months drag on, this comforting soup is sure to become a staple in your household, just like it has in many Canadian homes.

So why wait? Get cooking, and let the warm, comforting flavors of this Canadian beef barley soup recipe envelop you in a cozy hug on a cold winter's day.