Beef & Barley Soup

Crock Pot Beef & Barley Soup Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 lbs beef stew meat, cut into small cubes
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 medium carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, sliced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup pearl barley
• 6 cups beef broth
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, with juices
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup fresh spinach (optional, for added greens)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the ingredients:
   Trim the beef stew meat into bite-sized pieces if necessary, and chop all vegetables.
2. Assemble in the crock pot:
   Place the beef, onion, carrots, celery, garlic, and barley into the crock pot. Add the beef broth, diced tomatoes (with juices), thyme, parsley, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
3. Cook:
   Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours, until the beef is tender and the barley is cooked.
4. Add spinach (optional):
   If adding spinach, stir it in during the last 10-15 minutes of cooking to wilt.
5. Adjust seasoning:
   Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed before serving.
6. Serve:
   Ladle the soup into bowls and serve with crusty bread or crackers on the side.

---

This hearty soup is perfect for cold days or when you’re craving something comforting. Let me know if you’d like tips for customizing it further!