Soups & Stews > Hearty Stews > Vegetarian Stews > African Peanut Stew (Vegetarian) Recipe

Hearty Beef and Barley Stew

This classic beef and barley stew is the perfect comfort food for a cold day. It's packed with tender beef, hearty vegetables, and chewy barley in a rich and flavorful broth. Enjoy this warming and satisfying stew!

Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time
2.5 - 3 hours
Servings
6-8
Ingredients
  • 2 lbs Beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 2 tablespoons Olive oil
  • 1 Onion, chopped
  • 2 Carrots, chopped
  • 2 stalks Celery, chopped
  • 2 cloves Garlic, minced
  • 6 cups Beef broth
  • 1 cup Dry red wine (optional)
  • 1/2 cup Pearl barley
  • 2 tablespoons Tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon Dried thyme
  • 1 Bay leaf
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Browning the Beef

Season the beef chuck with salt and pepper. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Brown the beef in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot. Remove the browned beef and set aside.

Sautéing the Vegetables

Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the pot and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Building the Stew

Return the browned beef to the pot. Add the beef broth, red wine (if using), pearl barley, tomato paste, dried thyme, and bay leaf. Stir to combine.

Simmering the Stew

Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 2.5-3 hours, or until the beef is very tender and the barley is cooked through. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Finishing Touches

Remove the bay leaf before serving. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Nutrition Facts Estimated per 100g of product

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients and cooking methods.
Calories: Approximately 120-150kcal
Protein: 8-10g
Fat: 5-7g
Carbohydrates: 10-12g

Other Considerations for Nutrition

For a lower sodium option, use low-sodium beef broth. To increase the vegetable content, add more root vegetables like parsnips or sweet potatoes.

← Classic Hearty Beef Stew Hearty Chicken and Vegetable Stew →

FAQ

  • Can I use a different cut of beef?

    Yes, you can use other cuts of beef suitable for stewing, such as beef shanks or short ribs. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, as some cuts may require longer simmering.
  • Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?

    Yes, you can. Brown the beef and sauté the vegetables as described in the recipe. Then, transfer all ingredients to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
  • How long does the stew last in the fridge?

    The stew will last for 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Store it in an airtight container.
  • Can I freeze the stew?

    Yes, the stew freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.