Beef Barley Mushroom Soup - Live Learn Lovewell

Ingredients

• 4 tbsp olive oil, divided
• 1/2 lb beef chuck, cubed and seasoned with salt and pepper
• 1 medium carrot, chopped
• 1 medium stalk of celery, chopped
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, smashed
• 1/3 lb mushrooms, chopped
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 4 cups stock or broth
• 1 cup barley, cooked to manufacturer’s instructions
• In a deep pot, heat 2 tbsp olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add seasoned beef cubes, turning every 2-3 minutes to ensure browning. Remove cubes from heat.
• Add tomato paste and fry until fragrant, about 2 minutes.
• Reintroduce beef to the veggie mix. Add stock and bring to a boil. Reduce to a simmer immediately. Continue simmering for 30-45 minutes.
• With about 15 minutes to go, add cooked barley. This will allow the barley to soak up flavor without getting too soft.
• Serve with a hearty slice of buttered toast, and enjoy!