π₯£ Prepare yourself for a heartwarming culinary journey with this delightful Fresh Vegetable-Beef Barley Soup recipe that promises to tantalize your taste buds and warm your soul! Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends, this comforting one-dish meal combines tender beef stew meat with a colorful array of fresh vegetables and hearty barley, creating a symphony of flavors that will leave you craving for more. Whether you opt for the slow cooker or stove-top method, this recipe is guaranteed to bring a touch of homemade goodness to your table.
π½οΈ Let’s dive into the culinary adventure of crafting this savory soup, shall we? Here’s a detailed breakdown of the ingredients you’ll need:
| Ingredients | Quantities |
|---|---|
| Beef stew meat | 1 1/2 |
| Bell pepper | 1 |
| Green beans | – |
| Onion | 3/4 |
| Barley | 2/3 |
| Whole kernel corn | 2/3 |
| Water | 1 1/2 |
| Salt | 1 |
| Fresh thyme leaves | 1 |
| Dried thyme leaves | 1/4 |
| Pepper | 2 |
| Beef broth | 2 |
| Tomatoes with garlic | 1 |
| Tomato sauce | – |
πͺ Now that you have all your ingredients gathered, it’s time to embark on the culinary journey. Follow these simple steps to create your masterpiece:
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Preparation: Begin by gathering all your ingredients and ensuring they are measured out according to the quantities listed.
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Mixing: In a 3 1/2- to 6-quart slow cooker, combine the beef stew meat, diced bell pepper, chopped onion, barley, whole kernel corn, water, salt, fresh thyme leaves, dried thyme leaves, pepper, beef broth, diced tomatoes with garlic, and tomato sauce. Stir well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.
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Cooking: Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low heat for 8 to 9 hours, or if you’re pressed for time, opt for the high heat setting and cook for 4 to 5 hours. Allow the magic to happen as the flavors meld together and the vegetables and barley become tender.
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Adjustments: If you’re unable to find canned diced tomatoes with garlic, don’t fret! Simply substitute with 2 cans of diced tomatoes and add 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder to achieve that perfect balance of flavors.
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Optional Additions: Feel free to customize your soup by incorporating additional vegetables such as frozen cut green beans and whole kernel corn. Remember to rinse the frozen vegetables under cold running water to separate and partially thaw them before adding to the soup, ensuring they blend seamlessly with the other ingredients.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once the cooking process is complete, ladle your steaming hot Fresh Vegetable-Beef Barley Soup into bowls and garnish with a sprinkle of fresh thyme leaves for an extra burst of flavor. Pair it with crusty bread or a side salad for a wholesome meal that will satisfy even the heartiest of appetites.
π² With its rich aroma and hearty ingredients, this soul-soothing soup is sure to become a family favorite that you’ll turn to time and time again. Whether you’re curled up on the couch on a chilly evening or hosting a casual dinner with loved ones, this Fresh Vegetable-Beef Barley Soup is the ultimate comfort food that brings joy with every spoonful. So, gather your ingredients, embrace the art of slow cooking, and indulge in the simple pleasures of homemade goodness. Bon appΓ©tit! π₯πΏ
