Amish Beef Barley Soup is a comforting and hearty dish that brings the rustic flavors of the countryside to your kitchen. This slow-cooked soup is a staple in Amish communities, known for its simplicity and wholesome ingredients. It's perfect for those chilly days when you crave something warm and nourishing. The combination of tender beef, nutty barley, and a medley of vegetables creates a satisfying meal that's both nutritious and delicious. Making this soup in a slow cooker allows the flavors to meld beautifully over time, resulting in a rich and savory broth.
This Amish Beef Barley Soup pairs wonderfully with a slice of crusty bread or a warm, buttery biscuit. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can complement the hearty flavors of the soup. For a touch of sweetness, consider serving it with a side of applesauce or a slice of homemade apple pie for dessert.
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Slow Cooker Amish Beef Barley Soup
Servings: 6
Ingredients
1 pound beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 onion, chopped
2 carrots, sliced
2 celery stalks, sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
6 cups beef broth
1 cup pearl barley
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 bay leaf
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup frozen peas
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 onion, chopped
2 carrots, sliced
2 celery stalks, sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
6 cups beef broth
1 cup pearl barley
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 bay leaf
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup frozen peas
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Directions
Heat the vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the beef stew meat and brown on all sides. Transfer the browned beef to the slow cooker.
In the same skillet, add the onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften. Transfer the vegetables to the slow cooker.
Add the beef broth, barley, thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the beef is tender and the barley is cooked through.
About 30 minutes before serving, add the frozen peas to the slow cooker and stir.
Before serving, remove the bay leaf and stir in the fresh parsley. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
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Variations & Tips
For a richer flavor, you can substitute part of the beef broth with a cup of red wine. If you prefer a thicker soup, add a tablespoon of tomato paste when adding the broth. For a vegetarian version, omit the beef and use vegetable broth, adding more vegetables like mushrooms or potatoes for heartiness. You can also add a pinch of smoked paprika for a subtle smoky flavor. Feel free to experiment with different herbs such as rosemary or oregano to suit your taste.