Slow Cooker Beef Barley Soup

A slow cooker makes this the easiest recipe ever. It has become a regular family favorite. So much so, that I was requested to bring it to Christmas Eve dinner. I usually use leftover boneless beef short ribs.

• Preparation Time: 10 mins
• Cooking Time: 8 hr
• Total Time: 8 hr 10 mins
• Calories: 306 Calories

Ingredients

• 1 teaspoon salt
• 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• ½ cup chopped fresh parsley
• 6 cups water
• 4 stalks celery, chopped
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 6 carrots, chopped
• 6 green onions, chopped
• 1 cup barley
• 1 ½ pounds boneless lean beef, cubed
• 3 (10.5 ounce) cans beef broth

Recipe Instructions

Step 1

In a skillet over medium heat, saute the beef in the oil for 5 minutes, or until browned. Stir in the salt, pepper and garlic powder and place seasoned meat in a slow cooker. Add a little water to the skillet and stir to pick up the browned bits. Add to the slow cooker.

Step 2

Add the broth, water, celery, carrots, green onions, parsley and barley. Cover and cook on low setting for 6 to 8 hours, or until the vegetables and barley are tender. Add the thyme just before serving.