Introduction
Slow Cooker Beef & Barley Stew is the perfect comforting meal for cold days. This dish is loaded with tender beef, wholesome barley, and hearty vegetables, all simmered in a rich, flavorful broth. The slow cooker does most of the work, making it an easy yet satisfying dinner that the whole family will love.
Why You’ll Love This:
- Rich & Hearty: A perfect balance of protein, grains, and vegetables.
- Set It & Forget It: The slow cooker makes it effortless.
- Nutritious & Filling: Packed with fiber, protein, and essential nutrients.
- Great for Meal Prep: Tastes even better the next day!
Equipment Needed:
- Slow cooker
- Large skillet
- Cutting board & knife
- Measuring cups & spoons
- Wooden spoon
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs beef chuck (cut into bite sized pieces)
- 1 cup pearl barley (rinsed)
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 onion (chopped)
- 2 carrots (sliced)
- 2 celery stalks (chopped)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 bay leaf
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1/4 cup red wine (optional, for depth of flavor)
- 1 tablespoon flour (to thicken, if needed)
- Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 350-400 kcal
- Protein: 25-30 grams
- Carbohydrates: 35-40 grams
- Fat: 10-12 grams
- Fiber: 5-6 grams
Step by Step Instructions:
Time:
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (slow cooker)
- Total Time: 6-8 hours
- Sear the Beef: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium high heat. Add beef pieces and sear until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté the Aromatics: In the same skillet, add chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook for 3-4 minutes until fragrant.
- Deglaze & Build Flavor: Stir in tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add red wine (if using) and cook for 1-2 minutes to deglaze the pan.
- Slow Cook Everything: Transfer everything to the slow cooker. Add diced tomatoes, beef broth, bay leaf, and barley. Stir well, cover, and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours.
- Thicken the Stew (Optional): If a thicker consistency is desired, mix 1 tablespoon of flour with a little water to form a slurry and stir it into the stew 30 minutes before serving.
- Garnish & Serve: Remove the bay leaf, stir in fresh parsley, and serve hot with crusty bread or a side of mashed potatoes.
Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Beef & Barley Stew:
- Brown the beef before slow cooking to enhance the depth of flavor.
- Use pearl barley for the best texture.
- Adjust the thickness by adding more broth or using a flour slurry.
- Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
Serving Suggestions:
Pair this stew with a warm loaf of bread, a simple green salad, or roasted vegetables. A glass of red wine complements the richness beautifully.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q 1. Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes! Chuck roast, stew meat, or even short ribs work well.
Q 2. Can I make this gluten free?
Substitute barley with quinoa or rice for a gluten free option.
Q 3. How do I store leftovers?
Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Conclusion:
Slow Cooker Beef & Barley Stew is a nourishing and satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or serving a cozy family dinner, this hearty stew is guaranteed to be a hit. Give it a try and enjoy the rich, comforting flavors!