Nana’s Beef & Barley Stew
Description:
This hearty Beef & Barley Stew recipe is a cherished family dish passed down from my grandmother’s collection. It’s a comforting meal, especially delightful during winter when served with a crisp green salad and crusty bread. The recipe yields a large pot, perfect for freezing leftovers to enjoy as quick dinners. You can also customize it by adding leftover vegetables like corn or green beans without compromising its deliciousness. While it requires some simmering time, the end result is absolutely worth the wait!
Recipe Details:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 45 minutes
- Yield: Makes a large pot
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 596.4
- Total Fat: 34.3g
- Saturated Fat: 12.6g
- Cholesterol: 101.3mg
- Sodium: 456.1mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 37.6g
- Fiber: 7.9g
- Sugars: 5.4g
- Protein: 34.7g
Ingredients:
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 lbs stewing beef, cut into cubes
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 can condensed beef broth
- 4 cups water
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 6 carrots, sliced
- 4 celery ribs, chopped
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1 cup pearl barley, cooked
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a large heavy pot over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and minced garlic; sauté until fragrant.
- Add cubed beef and brown on all sides.
- Pour in condensed beef broth and water.
- Stir in bay leaves, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.
- Simmer uncovered for 1.5 hours, stirring occasionally.
- Add sliced carrots and chopped celery; simmer for an additional 30 minutes.
- If needed, add more water to adjust consistency.
- Stir in sliced mushrooms and cooked pearl barley.
- Simmer for another 15 minutes until vegetables are tender and flavors meld.
- Remove bay leaves before serving.
Tips and Serving Suggestions:
- This stew freezes well, making it perfect for meal prep.
- Serve hot with a side of crusty bread or over mashed potatoes for a hearty meal.
- Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or adjust seasoning according to taste.
Keywords:
One Dish Meal, Meat, Winter, Beginner Cook, Stove Top, Less than 4 Hours, Easy
This Beef & Barley Stew is not just a meal but a tradition, bringing warmth and comfort to any table. Enjoy the rich flavors and nourishing goodness of this timeless family recipe!
