Winter Comfort Beef & Barley Soup

When the winter chill sets in, nothing beats a warm and nourishing bowl of soup. This Winter Comfort Beef & Barley Soup is a delicious fusion of Pakistani and American flavors, combining the hearty richness of slow-cooked beef with the nutty goodness of barley. Infused with warm spices like cumin, cinnamon, and black pepper, this soup is not only comforting but also packed with nutrition. Whether you’re looking for a cozy dinner or a meal to keep you energized, this Winter Comfort Beef & Barley Soup is the perfect cold-weather dish!

Ingredients:

• 1 lb lean beef, cubed
• ½ cup pearl barley, rinsed
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch ginger, grated
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 tsp cumin powder
• ½ tsp cinnamon
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• 1 bay leaf
• 6 cups beef broth or water
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish

Serving:

Serves 4-6 people

Cooking Method:

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
2. Stir in garlic and ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add beef cubes and sear until browned on all sides.
4. Mix in cumin, cinnamon, black pepper, and salt, followed by tomato paste. Stir well.
5. Add carrots, celery, barley, bay leaf, and beef broth. Bring to a boil.
6. Lower the heat, cover, and let it simmer for about 45-60 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef is tender and barley is fully cooked.
7. Adjust seasoning, remove the bay leaf, and garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley before serving.

Nutritional Benefits:

• High in protein for muscle repair and strength
• Barley provides fiber for digestion and heart health
• Packed with vitamins and minerals for immune support

The Ultimate Winter Comfort Food:

This Winter Comfort Beef & Barley Soup is the perfect way to stay warm and nourished during the colder months. Serve it with whole-grain bread for a complete meal!

Make it in a Slow Cooker:

Brown the beef and sauté the aromatics first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.