Imagine coming home after a long day to the warm, inviting aroma of a hearty Slow Cooker Beef and Barley stew wafting through your kitchen. This comforting dish, packed with tender chunks of beef, wholesome barley, and fresh vegetables, is not just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl! Perfect for busy weeknights or chilly weekends, this recipe requires minimal prep time and lets your slow cooker do all the work. Ready to impress your family and warm their hearts? Dive into this easy, delicious recipe that promises to become a staple in your household!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 8 hrs
Total Time: 8 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1.5 lb beef chuck, cubed
- 1 cup barley
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp bay leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preparing your ingredients. Cube the beef chuck into bite-sized pieces, ensuring they are uniform for even cooking. Chop the onion, celery, and slice the carrots. Mince the garlic cloves and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add a tablespoon of oil. Once hot, add the cubed beef chuck to the skillet. Season the beef with salt and pepper. Sear the beef on all sides until browned, about 5-7 minutes. This step enhances the flavor of the meat.
- Transfer the browned beef to your slow cooker. Add the chopped onion, sliced carrots, chopped celery, and minced garlic on top of the beef.
- Next, add the cup of barley to the slow cooker. This grain will absorb the flavors and provide a hearty texture to the dish.
- Pour in the 4 cups of beef broth, ensuring all ingredients are submerged. Add the bay leaves and stir gently to combine all ingredients.
- Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on low for 8 hours. This slow cooking method allows the flavors to meld beautifully and the beef to become tender.
- After 8 hours, check the seasoning of the dish. Remove the bay leaves and taste the stew. Adjust the salt and pepper as needed to suit your preference.
- Once seasoned to your liking, serve the beef and barley stew hot. It can be enjoyed on its own or with crusty bread for a complete meal.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
Tips
- Sear the Beef: Don’t skip the searing step! Browning the beef before adding it to the slow cooker enhances its flavor and gives the stew a rich, savory depth.
- Choose Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality beef broth and fresh vegetables. The better the ingredients, the better the final dish will taste!
- Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to add or substitute vegetables based on your preference. Potatoes, peas, or mushrooms can make delightful additions.
- Let It Rest: After cooking, let the stew sit for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld even further.
- Perfect Pairing: Serve your beef and barley stew with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad for a well-rounded meal.
- Storage Tips: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to maintain the stew's delicious flavors.
- Adjust Seasoning: Always taste before serving! Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to suit your palate.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 90mg
