mushroom beef barley soup recipe

The Best mushroom beef barley soup recipe

I’m so glad you’re here to learn about my family’s favorite mushroom beef barley soup recipe. This hearty soup has been a staple in our household for years, and I’m excited to share it with you. I first discovered this recipe when my grandmother came to visit from Scotland.

She had brought it with her, and it quickly became a favorite among our family members. The combination of tender beef, flavorful mushrooms, and soft barley is a perfect blend of flavors and textures that will leave you wanting more. As a busy mom, I appreciate that this recipe is easy to make and can be adapted to suit any occasion or dietary need.

Whether you’re looking for a comforting meal on a chilly day or a satisfying option for a weeknight dinner, this mushroom beef barley soup is sure to become a new favorite in your household too. I love how the ingredients all come together to create a rich and savory broth that’s full of depth and character. And the best part?

It’s incredibly easy to make! Simply sauté some onions, garlic, and mushrooms in butter until they’re softened, then add in your beef and cook until it’s browned. Finally, add in your barley, broth, and seasonings, and let everything simmer together until the barley is tender.

That’s it! This recipe is perfect for any occasion or gathering, whether you’re hosting a big family dinner or just need something quick and easy for yourself. It’s also packed with nutrients from the vegetables and whole grains, making it a healthy option for those looking for a balanced meal.

As an added bonus, this soup freezes beautifully so you can make a big batch and enjoy it later on.

Mushroom Beef Barley Soup

4.6 from 1038 votes

A hearty and nourishing soup featuring tender beef, earthy mushrooms, and wholesome barley. This slow-simmered soup is perfect for cold days and fills the kitchen with a comforting aroma.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time1 hour 30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time1 hour 50 mins
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 380 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Soup Base

1 1/2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 large onion, diced
2 carrots, peeled and diced
2 celery stalks, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
8 ounces cremini mushrooms, sliced
1/2 cup pearl barley, rinsed
6 cups beef broth
2 cups water
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 bay leaf
Salt and black pepper to taste
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

👨‍🍳Directions

1Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large pot over medium-high heat until shimmering.
2Add half of the beef cubes in a single layer and brown on all sides for about 4 to 5 minutes, until deep golden brown.
3Transfer the browned beef to a plate and repeat with the remaining oil and beef.
4Reduce heat to medium and add the diced onion, carrots, and celery to the pot.
5Cook for 5 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and the onion is translucent.
6Add the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms, then cook for another 3 to 4 minutes until the mushrooms have released their moisture and begin to brown.
7Return the browned beef to the pot along with any accumulated juices.
8Add the rinsed barley, beef broth, water, dried thyme, and bay leaf.
9Stir well to combine, then bring the soup to a boil over high heat.
10Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot with a lid.
11Simmer gently for 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef is fork-tender and the barley is plump and cooked through.
12Remove the bay leaf and season with salt and black pepper to taste.
13Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with fresh chopped parsley.
14Serve immediately with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.

🔧Equipment

Large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven
Wooden spoon
Chef’s knife
Cutting board
Measuring cups and spoons

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 380 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 4g❤️Cholesterol: 60mg🧂Sodium: 800mg🌾Total Carbs: 35g🥦Dietary Fiber: 6g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 28g

📝Notes

For a richer flavor, use a mix of cremini and shiitake mushrooms. You can also substitute pearl barley with hulled barley, but increase cooking time by 15 minutes. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and taste even better the next day.

Watch Video Of How Mushroom Beef Barley Soup Works

This mushroom beef barley soup recipe is perfect for any occasion or gathering whether you’re hosting a big family dinner or just need something quick and easy for yourself.

It’s also packed with nutrients from the vegetables and whole grains making it a healthy option for those looking for a balanced meal.

As an added bonus this soup freezes beautifully so you can make a big batch and enjoy it later on.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Mushroom Beef Barley Soup

Q: What type of mushrooms are best for this recipe?

A: You can use either button mushrooms or cremini mushrooms for this recipe. Both will give you great results and are easily found at most grocery stores.

Q: Can I substitute beef with another protein source?

A: Yes, you can easily substitute beef with ground turkey or chicken if you prefer. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Q: How long does this soup take to make?

A: This soup takes about 45 minutes to an hour to prepare from start to finish. However, most of that time is spent waiting for the barley to cook through.

Q: Can I make this soup ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can definitely make this soup ahead of time. Simply let it cool completely before refrigerating or freezing it for later use.

Q: What if I don’t have barley in my pantry?

A: Don’t worry! Barley can be found at most grocery stores or health food stores. You can also substitute it with rice if you prefer.

Q: Is this soup suitable for vegans?

A: No, this soup is not suitable for vegans as it contains beef broth. However, you can easily make it vegan-friendly by substituting the broth with vegetable broth and using vegan Worcestershire sauce if desired.

Similar Posts