A hearty stew combines tender Alberta beef with wholesome barley for a comforting meal that’s perfect on chilly days. Packed with rich flavors and simple ingredients, it’s a dish the whole family will love.
Prep Time20 min
Cook Time5 hr 5 min
Total Time5 hr 25 min
Difficulty
Hard
Smart Cooking Tips
Brown the beef well before simmering to enhance the stew’s depth of flavor.
Use low heat and cook slowly to ensure the barley becomes tender without turning mushy.
Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and to evenly distribute the flavors.
Ingredients
0/10
Why This Dish Is A Crowd Favorite
This hearty stew combines tender Alberta beef with wholesome barley, creating a comforting meal that is both nutritious and satisfying. The rich flavors develop slowly, making it perfect for cozy dinners and family gatherings.
Step 1
Lightly heat 2 cups of water in a microwave-safe bowl until it’s boiling—this usually takes about 2 minutes. Stir in the beef bouillon cubes and onion soup mix until they’re completely dissolved. Pour this flavorful broth along with 4 more cups of water into your slow cooker and set it to High.
Step 2
Add the beef, potatoes, onion, carrots, celery, and garlic to the slow cooker. Give everything a good stir to combine. Cover and let it cook for about 4 1/2 to 5 hours, or until the potatoes are nice and tender when you poke them with a fork.
Step 3
Once the potatoes are soft, stir in the barley. Keep the slow cooker going for another 30 minutes or so, until the barley has softened up too.
Step 4
When everything is cooked through, turn off the slow cooker and take off the lid. Let the stew sit for about 5 minutes to thicken up a bit before serving.
100
people cooked this recipe
ByRyan Parker
Ryan shares simple recipes made for everyday cooking and easy family meals.
Serving Combinations
Serve this stew with a side of crusty bread or over creamy mashed potatoes. A simple green salad or steamed vegetables make a nice, fresh complement to the rich, savory dish.
How To Store This Recipe
Allow the stew to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove to preserve the texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different cut of beef for this stew?
Yes, you can use other stew meat cuts like chuck or round, but make sure they are cut into 1-inch cubes for even cooking.
Do I need to soak the pearl barley before adding it?
No, pearl barley does not need to be soaked; just add it directly to the slow cooker as instructed.
Can I cook this stew on Low instead of High?
Yes, cooking on Low will take longer, about 7 to 8 hours, but the results will be just as tender and flavorful.
How thick should the stew be when serving?
The stew should be thickened after resting for 5 minutes off heat, with a slightly hearty, soup-like consistency.
Can I make this recipe in a regular pot on the stove?
Yes, simmer the ingredients on low heat for about 2 to 3 hours until the meat and vegetables are tender, then add the barley and cook 30 minutes more.
Is it possible to freeze leftovers?
Yes, let the stew cool completely before freezing in airtight containers; reheat gently on the stove or microwave.
Can I add other vegetables to this stew?
Absolutely, vegetables like peas, green beans, or mushrooms can be added during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
What can I substitute for beef bouillon cubes?
You can use beef broth or stock instead, adjusting the water amount accordingly for flavor.
This simple and flavorful burger combines ground chicken with hearty chickpeas for a healthy twist on a classic favorite. Perfect for a quick weeknigh...
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Snacks
Meals
Drinks
Vegan
