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Slow Cooker Beef Barley Soup (Hearty, Nourishing & Deeply Flavorful)
Isla Marie

Slow Cooker Beef Barley Soup

Slow Cooker Beef Barley Soup is a hearty and comforting meal made with tender slow-cooked beef, wholesome barley, and vegetables simmered in a rich, savory broth. It’s perfect for cozy dinners, meal prep, and nourishing family meals.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 7 hours
Total Time 7 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Main Course, Soup
Cuisine: American
Calories: 320
Ingredients Equipment Method Video Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb 450g beef chuck or stew meat, cut into chunks
  • 3/4 cup pearl barley
  • 3 carrots sliced
  • 2 celery stalks chopped
  • 1 small onion diced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 6 cups beef broth
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Equipment

  • Slow cooker
  • Cutting board
  • Knife
  • Skillet (optional for searing)
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Mixing spoon

Method
 

Step 1. Prepare the Beef
  1. Season beef with salt and pepper. Optionally sear in a pan with olive oil for extra flavor.
Step 2. Add Ingredients to Slow Cooker
  1. Place beef, barley, carrots, celery, onion, and garlic into the slow cooker. Add tomato paste, thyme, bay leaf, and beef broth.
Step 3. Mix
  1. Stir gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
Step 4. Cook
  1. Cover and cook on low for 7–8 hours or high for 4–5 hours until beef is tender and barley is cooked.
Step 5. Adjust Seasoning
  1. Remove bay leaf and adjust salt and pepper to taste.
Step 6. Serve
  1. Serve hot and let sit for a few minutes before serving.

Video

Notes

  • Searing beef enhances flavor but is optional
  • Use pearl barley for best texture
  • Add extra broth when reheating if soup thickens
  • Avoid using lean beef for best results
  • Let soup rest slightly before serving for better flavor