Slow Cooker Beef Barley Stew Recipe

Introduction

There’s nothing quite as comforting as a steaming bowl of Slow Cooker Beef Barley Stew, especially as the days grow shorter and the temperatures drop. This recipe embodies family, creativity, and the joy of home-cooked meals. It’s perfect for cozying up with loved ones, sharing stories, and savoring the hearty flavors that this wholesome stew offers. Picture your family gathered around the table, the rich aroma of tender beef, earthy barley, and fresh vegetables wafting through your kitchen. Let’s dive into this deliciously satisfying dish that’s not only easy to prepare but also a delightful way to bring everyone together.

Recipe Summary

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 7-8 hours (slow cooker)
• Total Time: 7-8 hours 15 minutes
• Servings: 6-8
• Skill Level: Easy

Ingredients

• 1 ½ pounds beef stew meat, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 carrots, sliced
• 3 ribs celery, sliced
• 1 cup pearl barley
• 6 cups beef broth
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 2 teaspoons dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 2 bay leaves
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the beef stew meat in batches, ensuring each piece is seared on all sides. Transfer the beef to the slow cooker.
2. In the same skillet, add chopped onions and garlic, sautéing until fragrant and translucent, about 2-3 minutes. Transfer to the slow cooker.
3. Add the sliced carrots, celery, and pearl barley to the slow cooker.
4. Pour beef broth and undrained diced tomatoes into the slow cooker. Stir to combine all ingredients.
5. Add dried thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 7-8 hours, or until the beef is tender and the barley is cooked through.
7. Before serving, remove the bay leaves and garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
8. Serve hot with a crusty piece of bread for a complete meal.

Helpful Tips

Variations: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like potatoes, peas, or mushrooms to make this stew even heartier. If you prefer a thicker stew, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water and stir it into the stew 30 minutes before serving.

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This stew also freezes well; just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.

Substitutions: You can substitute pearl barley with quinoa or farro for a different texture and flavor. If you don’t have fresh garlic, garlic powder works in a pinch.

Pairings

This Slow Cooker Beef Barley Stew pairs wonderfully with a crusty sourdough bread or a simple side salad. For drinks, a robust red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or a warm spiced apple cider complements the rich flavors of the stew perfectly.

Conclusion

I hope you and your family enjoy making and savoring this Slow Cooker Beef Barley Stew as much as mine does. Don’t forget to share your creations with us by using #ZynahzRecipes or tagging @Zynahz on Instagram. We look forward to seeing your delicious dishes!

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