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Beef Barley Stew from Alberta
Warm up your day with this hearty and comforting stew, packed with tender beef and nutty barley. It’s a perfect meal to enjoy on chilly evenings, bringing rich flavors straight from the heart of Alberta.
◷5 hr 25 minTotal Time
♜4Servings
▥HardDifficulty
Ingredients
4servings
Instructions
1
Prepare and Combine Ingredients
Start by heating 2 cups of water in a microwave-safe bowl until it boils, which usually takes about 2 minutes. Stir in the beef bouillon cubes and onion soup mix until everything is fully dissolved. Pour this flavorful broth along with 4 more cups of water into your slow cooker and set it to High. Next, add the beef, potatoes, onion, carrots, celery, and garlic to the slow cooker and 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 tender when you poke them with a fork. Once the potatoes are ready, stir in the barley and keep cooking for another 30 minutes or so, until the barley is nice and tender. When it’s done, turn off the slow cooker, take off the lid, and let the stew sit for about 5 minutes to thicken up a bit before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This stew is warm and comforting, perfect for chilly days. The tender beef and chewy barley create a hearty texture that feels like a big, cozy hug. It’s packed with flavors that develop slowly, making every bite rich and satisfying.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this stew with crusty bread or a side of buttered mashed potatoes. A simple green salad or steamed greens can add a fresh contrast. It also pairs nicely with a glass of red wine or a hearty ale.
Storage Tips
Let the stew cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. It keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can also freeze portions for up to 3 months—just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stove.
