This Beef and Barley Stew is a comforting, one-pot wonder that’s perfect for chilly days. Packed with tender beef, wholesome barley, and savory vegetables, it’s a nutritious and satisfying meal that practically cooks itself in your slow cooker.
Beef and Barley Stew – Slow Cooker
Course: DinnerCuisine: AmericanServings
6
servingsPrep time
15
minutesCalories
350
kcalCook Time (Low)
8
HoursCook Time (High)
4
HoursA rich and nourishing stew featuring tender chunks of beef, chewy barley, and a medley of vegetables, all simmered to perfection in a savory broth.
Ingredients
– 1.5 lbs beef stew meat, cubed
– 1 cup pearl barley, rinsed
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1 cup water
– 2 medium carrots, sliced
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 bay leaf
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions
- Place the beef stew meat, barley, carrots, celery, onion, and garlic in the slow cooker.
- In a bowl, whisk together the beef broth, water, tomato paste, thyme, smoked paprika, and bay leaf. Pour over the ingredients in the slow cooker.
- Stir gently to combine, then season with salt and pepper.
- Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours, until the beef is tender and the barley is cooked.
- Remove the bay leaf before serving.
Notes
- Recipe Tips & Serving Suggestions
🥕 Tip 1: For a thicker stew, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and stir it into the stew during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
🥖 Tip 2: Serve with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
🌿 Tip 3: Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme for a pop of color and freshness. - 📌 Pin this recipe for later and make it your go-to comfort meal!
