Warm up with a hearty bowl of Classic Beef and Barley Stew, a comforting and healthy beef stew recipe perfect for any day. This easy-to-follow recipe brings together tender beef and wholesome barley for a satisfying meal you’ll love.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Beef: Use beef stew meat; chuck roast cut into cubes also works well.
- Barley: Pearl barley is recommended. You can use quick-cooking barley, but adjust cooking time.
- Vegetables: Carrots, celery, and potatoes are standard. Feel free to add peas or corn.
- Broth: Beef broth is essential. Vegetable broth can be substituted in a pinch.
Ingredients:
Main:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1.5 lbs beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 large yellow onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cups beef broth
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup pearl barley, rinsed
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
Spices:
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 2 hours
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Calories per serving: Approximately 350-400 kcal
- Tools Needed: Large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Beef
Heat olive oil in your pot over medium-high heat. Season the beef cubes with salt and pepper, then brown them in batches until a nice crust forms. Remove the browned beef and set it aside.
2. Sauté Aromatics
Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook until the vegetables soften, about 5-7 minutes. This step builds a flavorful base for your healthy beef stew recipe.
3. Deglaze and Add Liquids
Pour in a splash of beef broth to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Return the browned beef to the pot, then add the remaining beef broth, water, thyme, paprika, and garlic powder.
4. Simmer the Stew
Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1 hour. This allows the beef to become tender and the flavors to meld beautifully.
5. Add Barley and Potatoes
Stir in the rinsed pearl barley and cubed potatoes. Continue to simmer, covered, for another 30-40 minutes, or until the barley is tender and the potatoes are easily pierced with a fork.
6. Season and Serve
Taste the stew and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Your delicious and healthy beef stew recipe is now ready to serve. Enjoy this warming meal.
Variation Ideas:
- Add more vegetables: Incorporate frozen peas or corn during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
- Herbs: Fresh parsley or bay leaves can enhance the flavor.
- Spicy kick: A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a nice warmth.
Storage Instructions:
Store leftover Classic Beef and Barley Stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop over medium-low heat or in the microwave until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Can I make this Classic Beef and Barley Stew in a slow cooker?
Yes, after browning the beef and sautéing the aromatics, transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, adding barley and potatoes for the last 2 hours.
Is this a gluten-free healthy beef stew recipe?
No, barley contains gluten. For a gluten-free option, substitute barley with brown rice or quinoa, adjusting cooking times as needed.
Why is my beef still tough?
Tough beef usually means it needs more cooking time. Ensure your stew simmers gently until the beef is fork-tender.
Can I freeze this healthy beef stew?
Absolutely! This stew freezes well. Let it cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Do I need to soak the barley before adding it?
No, rinsing pearl barley is sufficient. Soaking is not necessary for this recipe.
