Beef Barley Soup

Here’s a real stick-to-your-ribs soup. I’ve also used a chuck roast, rump roast and London broil that have been cut into bite-size pieces with tremendous success.

—JANE MCMILLAN DANIA BEACH, FL



PREP: 20 MIN. • COOK:1/2 HOURS • MAKES: 8 SERVINGS (2 QUARTS)


1/2 pounds beef stew meat, cut into 1/2-inch cubes

1 tablespoon canola oil

1 carton (32 ounces) beef broth

1 bottle (12 ounces) beer or nonalcoholic beer

1 small onion, chopped

1/2 cup medium pearl barley

3 garlic cloves, minced

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon dried parsley flakes

1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

1/2 teaspoon pepper

1/4 teaspoon salt

1 bay leaf

2 cups frozen mixed vegetables, thawed

1. In a large skillet, brown beef in oil; drain. Transfer to a 3-qt. slow cooker.

2. Add the broth, beer, onion, barley, garlic, oregano, parsley, Worcestershire sauce, pepper flakes, pepper, salt and bay leaf. Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours.

3. Stir in vegetables; cover and cook 30 minutes longer or until meat is tender and vegetables are heated through. Discard bay leaf.