Description

Warm up on chilly days with this cozy Beef and Barley Slow Cooker Stew. This comforting dish features tender beef, nutty barley, and a colorful array of vegetables simmered to perfection in a savory broth. It’s easy to prepare, making it the ideal meal for family gatherings or quiet nights at home. Enjoy a bowl that warms both body and soul!

Ingredients

Scale

2 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into 1-inch cubes
1 cup whole grain barley
3 large carrots, sliced thick
2 yellow onions, diced
4 garlic cloves, minced
4 cups low-sodium beef broth
1 tsp dried thyme
2 bay leaves
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

Season the beef cubes generously with salt and pepper.
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the beef cubes in batches until golden brown on all sides; set aside.
In the slow cooker, combine diced onions, carrots, minced garlic, thyme, and bay leaves. Stir to mix well.
Add the browned beef to the slow cooker and pour in the beef broth until ingredients are submerged. Top with barley without stirring.
Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours until everything is tender. Adjust seasoning if needed before serving.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 8 hours (low) or 4 hours (high)
Category: Main
Method: Slow Cooking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 350g)
Calories: 410
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 550mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 36g
Fiber: 7g
Protein: 30g
Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: For added flavor, consider adding spices like smoked paprika or swapping in different vegetables such as peas or potatoes. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze for up to three months.