Hearty Beef and Barley Soup

This Hearty Beef and Barley Soup is a comforting and satisfying dish perfect for those cold or cozy days when you're craving something nourishing. It features tender strips of beef that are seared to perfection, combined with a flavorful mix of vegetables, including potatoes, carrots, and tomatoes. Barley is added for a chewy texture and wholesome goodness. The soup is seasoned and simmered to develop a rich and savory broth. Garlic and a splash of ketchup bring a unique depth of flavor. Topped with sour pickles for an extra tangy kick, this soup is a meal in itself but can also be complemented with crusty bread or a fresh side salad. It's sure to be a hit with your family and can easily be adjusted for different dietary needs. Whether you’re serving it as a starter or a main course, this soup promises to deliver warmth and comfort in every spoonful.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 500g beef, cut into strips
• 2 carrots, grated
• 2 tomatoes, chopped
• 2 tbsp barley
• 5 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 potatoes, cut like fries
• 1 sour pickle, chopped
• 2 onions, chopped

Spices and Sauces:

• Salt and pepper to taste
• Additional spices as desired
• A generous splash of ketchup

Preparation Time

• Total time: 2 hours, including preparation and cooking

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Begin by gathering all your ingredients. Chop the beef, onions, carrots, tomatoes, and garlic. Cut the potatoes into thin strips, resembling French fries.

2. Sear the Beef: In a large skillet, heat some oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef strips and sear until browned on all sides. Season with salt, pepper, and any other favorite spices.

3. Add to Broth: Transfer the seared beef into a large pot filled with broth.

4. Cook the Vegetables: In the same skillet used for the beef, sauté the chopped onions until translucent. Then add the grated carrots and chopped tomatoes. Cook until the vegetables are soft and fragrant.

5. Combine in the Pot: Add the sautéed vegetables to the pot with the beef.

6. Add Barley: Stir in the barley, ensuring it is evenly distributed.

7. Simmer: Bring the soup to a slow simmer over low heat. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Adjust seasoning if needed.

8. Add Potatoes: About 20 minutes before the soup is done, add the potato strips to the pot. They should cook until tender but still hold their shape.

9. Final Touches: Stir in the minced garlic and a generous splash of ketchup. This will enrich the flavor of the broth.

10. Finish Cooking: Cover the pot, turn off the heat, and let the soup rest for a few minutes.

11. Serve with Pickles: Ladle the soup into bowls, and top with chopped sour pickles for a zesty finish.

12. Enjoy Warm: Pair with crusty bread for a complete meal.

Tips

• Substitutions: You can substitute beef with chicken or turkey if preferred.
• Vegetarian Option: Use vegetable broth and omit the meat for a vegetarian version.
• Broth Options: For a richer flavor, use beef broth instead of water.

Nutrition (per serving)

• Calories: Approximately 350 kcal
• Protein: 25g
• Fats: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 45g

Variations

• Spicy Version: Add chili flakes for extra heat.
• Add Greens: Throw in some spinach or kale in the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrients.

Serving Suggestions

• Garnish: Sprinkle some fresh parsley or dill for a burst of color.
• Side Dish: Serve with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables.

Best Places

1. Soup Kitchen International - Famous for hearty soups in a cozy setting. Location: 259A West 55th St, New York City, USA.
2. La Soupe Populaire - Offers flavorful soups with a gourmet twist. Location: Prenzlauer Allee 242, Berlin, Germany.
3. Soup Cycle - Delivers delicious soups with fresh, local ingredients. Location: 817 E Burnside St, Portland, USA.
4. Pots & Co - Cozy spot with a variety of hearty soups. Location: Bruce St, Belfast, Northern Ireland.
5. Soup Culture - Specializes in unique and savory soup flavors. Location: Bologna St, Lisbon, Portugal.
6. The Soup Peddler - Known for creative and wholesome soups. Location: 501 W Mary St, Austin, USA.
7. Soup Spoon Café - Cozy and lively café with delicious soup choices. Location: 1419 E Michigan Ave, Lansing, USA.
8. Borscht & Co - Offers traditional and contemporary soup recipes. Location: Tatarsky Blvd, Kazan, Russia.
9. Giraffe Café - Delicious and hearty soup offerings with a view. Location: Passage des Panoramas, Paris, France.
10. Hot Spoon - Celebrates beloved global soup traditions. Location: Queen St, Toronto, Canada.