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Comfort food holds a special place in culinary traditions around the world, often embodying warmth, nostalgia, and satisfaction. These dishes are frequently rooted in cultural heritage, passed down through generations, and are often associated with gatherings, family dinners, and cozy evenings at home. One such quintessential comfort food is beef and barley stew—a dish that not only warms the body but also nourishes the soul.

Beef and Barley Stew

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Ingredients
  

2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes

1 cup pearl barley

4 cups beef broth

2 cups water

1 medium onion, diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

2 medium carrots, sliced

2 celery stalks, sliced

2 medium potatoes, diced

1 cup green beans, chopped

1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juices)

2 bay leaves

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

Salt and pepper to taste

2 tablespoons olive oil

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

In a large heavy pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes and sear them until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the beef from the pot and set aside.

    In the same pot, add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

      Stir in the carrots, celery, and potatoes. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

        Return the browned beef to the pot along with the cooked vegetables. Add the pearl barley, beef broth, water, diced tomatoes (with juices), bay leaves, thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.

          Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef and barley are tender. Stir occasionally and make sure the stew does not stick to the bottom of the pot.

            In the last 20 minutes of cooking, add the chopped green beans for a fresh crunch.

              Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Remove the bay leaves before serving.

                Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with fresh chopped parsley. Enjoy your warm, hearty meal!

                  Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes | Servings: 6