2 lbs beef chuck, cut into chunks
3/4 cup pearl barley
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
1 onion, chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
8 cups beef stock
2 bay leaves
2 sprigs fresh thyme
2 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Season and sear beef until browned; set aside.
Sauté onion, carrots, and celery until soft; add garlic.
Deglaze with wine if using.
Return beef to pot with stock, barley, and herbs.
Simmer covered 60–75 minutes until beef is tender and barley is cooked.
Adjust seasoning and serve hot.
Skim excess fat while cooking for a cleaner broth.
Add extra stock if soup thickens upon reheating.
Freezer-friendly up to 3 months.