Slow Cooker Beef Barley Stew

Slow Cooker Beef Barley Stew is a hearty and comforting dish that’s perfect for chilly days when you crave something warm and satisfying. This stew is filled with tender chunks of beef, wholesome barley, and an array of vegetables, all simmered together in a rich, savory broth. The slow cooker does all the work, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while the beef becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender. It’s a nutritious and filling meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends when you want to come home to a delicious, home-cooked dinner.

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ pounds beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 cup pearl barley, rinsed
• 3 large carrots, peeled and sliced
• 3 celery stalks, sliced
• 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (optional)
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

Instructions:

1. Sear the beef: Season the beef stew meat with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef and sear on all sides until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Transfer the beef to the slow cooker.
2. Sauté the onions and garlic: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant. Transfer the onions and garlic to the slow cooker.
3. Add the remaining ingredients: To the slow cooker, add the beef broth, pearl barley, carrots, celery, potatoes, mushrooms (if using), bay leaf, thyme, rosemary, tomato paste, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir to combine.
4. Cook the stew: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, until the beef is tender and the barley is cooked through.
5. Finish and serve: Before serving, remove the bay leaf and taste the stew. Adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Serve the stew hot, with crusty bread on the side if desired.

This Slow Cooker Beef Barley Stew is the ultimate comfort food, providing a warm and satisfying meal that requires minimal effort. It’s perfect for feeding a crowd or for meal prepping, as it tastes even better the next day. Enjoy!