Ingredients:
* 2 1/2 pounds chuck roast, meticulously trimmed of large fat pieces
* Season the beef with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.
* 1 tablespoon flour
* Olive oil for browning the beef
* 1 1/2 cups sliced carrots
* 1 1/2 cups diced onions
* 1 cup chopped celery
* 1 teaspoon kosher salt
* Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
* 1 tablespoon minced garlic
* 2 tablespoons tomato paste
* 3/4 cup red wine
* 8 cups beef broth
* 1 tablespoon freshly chopped thyme
* 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
* 2/3 cup pearl barley
* 2 tablespoons freshly chopped parsley
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Beef
* Trim the chuck roast of large fat pieces and dice it into approximately 3/4-inch pieces.
* Generously season the beef with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, then lightly toss it with a tablespoon of flour.
Step 2: Brown the Beef
* Heat a dutch oven or soup pot, adding a thin layer of olive oil.
* Brown the beef in batches, ensuring all sides turn golden brown. Place the browned beef on a plate while continuing with the rest, adding more oil if necessary.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
* Add the sliced carrots, diced onions, and chopped celery to the pot.
* Season with a teaspoon of kosher salt and black pepper, then sauté the vegetables for 5 minutes.
* Add the garlic and tomato paste, continuing to cook for an additional minute.
Step 4: Deglaze and Simmer
* Deglaze the pot with the red wine, scraping up the flavorful brown bits.
* Let the wine reduce for about 2 minutes, then pour in the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and fresh thyme.
* Return the beef to the pot, including any juices, stir, and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, lower the heat and simmer uncovered for 45 minutes. Adjust the seasoning as needed.
Step 5: Add the Barley and Serve
* Introduce the pearl barley to the soup, stirring well.
* Partially cover the pot and continue to cook for another 30 minutes or until the barley is tender.
* Stir in the fresh parsley, serve in bowls with an extra sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper and more parsley if desired.
Enjoy this hearty Beef Barley Soup!
