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A steaming bowl of hearty beef barley soup with vegetables and fresh herbs

Warm and Comforting Beef Soup

This hearty beef soup combines tender beef, soft vegetables, and rich broth for a comforting dish perfect for cool nights.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course, Soup
Cuisine: American
Calories: 300
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 lb beef (small cubes or ground) Browned for flavor
  • 1 medium onion, chopped Adds sweetness
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced Enhances flavor
  • 4 cups beef broth Choose low sodium if desired
  • 2 medium carrots, diced Adds sweetness
  • 2 stalks celery, diced For added texture
  • 2 medium potatoes, diced Makes the soup hearty
  • 1 leaf bay leaf Adds depth of flavor
  • 1 tsp dried thyme Herbal flavor
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce Optional, for flavor
  • to taste salt and pepper Adjust per preference
  • optional flour mixed with water For thickening the soup if desired

Method
 

Cooking the Soup
  1. Brown the beef in a large pot over medium heat; season with salt and pepper and drain excess fat.
  2. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
  3. Pour in the beef broth and add the diced carrots, celery, and potatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
  4. Add the bay leaf, dried thyme, and Worcestershire sauce if using. Simmer for 30 to 40 minutes until the vegetables and beef are tender.
  5. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper. Remove the bay leaf.
  6. If you prefer a thicker soup, mash a few potatoes in the pot or add a spoon of flour mixed with water, stir and cook for a few minutes.
  7. Serve hot with fresh bread or crackers.

Notes

Tips for success include browning the beef well for flavor, cutting vegetables evenly, and checking sodium levels if using canned broth. For more flavor, simmer longer.