Beef Barley Soup Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 lb beef stew meat, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, sliced
• 1 cup barley (pearl or hull-less)
• 6 cups beef broth
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Brown the Beef: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the beef stew meat and brown on all sides. Remove from the pot and set aside.
2. Sauté Vegetables: In the same pot, add the onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender. Add the garlic and cook for another minute.
3. Combine Ingredients: Return the beef to the pot. Add the barley, beef broth, diced tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper.
4. Simmer: Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and let simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender and the barley is cooked.
5. Finish and Serve: Remove the bay leaf. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.