Beef and Barley Vegetable Stew

Ingredients

• 2 lb beef chuck roast, trimmed and cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 1/2 tsp salt, divided
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 large yellow onion, diced
• 3 carrots, peeled and sliced into rounds
• 2 celery stalks, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 6 cups beef broth
• 3/4 cup pearl barley, rinsed
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 2 yukon gold potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions

1. Pat the beef cubes dry with paper towels and season with 1 teaspoon of the salt and the black pepper.
2. Heat the vegetable oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy pot over medium-high heat until shimmering.
3. Sear the beef in batches, without crowding the pot, for 3 to 4 minutes per batch, turning occasionally, until deeply browned on at least two sides; transfer to a plate.
4. Add the onion, carrots, and celery to the pot and cook for 6 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and beginning to brown.
5. Stir in the garlic and tomato paste and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant.
6. Return the beef and any accumulated juices to the pot, then pour in the beef broth, scraping the bottom to release the browned bits.
7. Add the bay leaves, thyme, and remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt, and bring to a boil over high heat.
8. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 60 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef is beginning to turn tender.
9. Stir in the barley and potatoes, then cover and continue simmering for 30 to 35 minutes, until the barley is tender and the beef shreds easily with a fork.
10. Remove the bay leaves and taste, adjusting salt and pepper as needed.
11. Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving.

Tips

Why You'll Love This

• One-pot meal loaded with fiber-rich barley and vegetables
• Freezes and reheats beautifully
• Naturally dairy-free comfort food

Nutrition

Nutrition values are estimated per serving based on the ingredients used.