This hearty beef and barley stew is a perfect freezer friendly dinner recipe, offering a comforting and satisfying meal for any busy weeknight. You can easily make a big batch, ensuring delicious leftovers are ready whenever you are. This recipe is simple to follow and perfect for beginners.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- Beef Stew Meat: You can use chuck roast cut into cubes.
- Beef Broth: Vegetable broth works well as a substitute.
- Pearl Barley: Quick-cooking barley can be used to reduce simmering time.
- Root Vegetables: Carrots, celery, and potatoes are essential. Try adding parsnips for extra flavor.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 pounds beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 large yellow onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups beef broth
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup pearl barley
- 3 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 3 celery stalks, sliced
- 2 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
Seasonings:
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Calories per serving: Approximately 450
- Tools Needed: Large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Brown the Beef
Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or pot over medium-high heat. Add beef stew meat in batches and brown on all sides. Do not overcrowd the pot; this ensures a good sear. Remove the browned beef and set aside.
2. Sauté Aromatics
Add chopped onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Deglaze the pot with a splash of beef broth if any browned bits are stuck to the bottom.
3. Combine and Simmer
Return the browned beef to the pot. Pour in the remaining beef broth and the diced tomatoes. Add the pearl barley, dried thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1 hour.
4. Add Vegetables
After 1 hour, stir in the sliced carrots, celery, and cubed potatoes. Continue to simmer, covered, for another 45-60 minutes, or until the beef is tender and the barley and vegetables are cooked through. The stew will thicken as it cooks.
5. Adjust Seasoning and Serve
Remove the bay leaf before serving. Taste the stew and adjust salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot, enjoying your delicious freezer friendly dinner recipe.
Variation Ideas
- Add frozen peas or corn during the last 15 minutes of cooking for extra color and sweetness.
- Stir in a handful of fresh chopped parsley or chives before serving for a fresh flavor.
- For a thicker stew, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water and stir into the stew during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
Storage Instructions
This hearty beef and barley stew is an excellent freezer friendly dinner recipe. Allow the stew to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers or freezer-safe bags. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use quick-cooking barley instead of pearl barley?
Yes, you can. Adjust the simmering time accordingly, adding it later in the cooking process to prevent it from becoming mushy.
Do I need to soak the barley before cooking?
No, soaking pearl barley is not necessary for this recipe. It will soften as it simmers in the stew.
Can I cook this in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can. Brown the beef and sauté the aromatics first, then combine all ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
How can I make this stew thicker?
You can thicken the stew by mashing some of the cooked potatoes against the side of the pot or by making a cornstarch slurry and stirring it in.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
No, barley contains gluten. You would need to substitute the barley with a gluten-free grain like wild rice or quinoa for a gluten-free option.
What side dishes pair well with this stew?
Crusty bread for dipping, a simple green salad, or steamed green beans are excellent accompaniments to this fulfilling freezer friendly dinner recipe.