Hearty and Delicious Alberta Beef Barley Stew

This hearty Alberta Beef Barley Stew is the perfect comfort food for chilly days. Made with tender chunks of beef, wholesome vegetables, and plump barley, this stew is rich in flavors and textures. It's a one-pot wonder that will warm your soul and satisfy your appetite. Serve it with crusty bread or on its own for a satisfying meal that will keep you cozy and nourished.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds Alberta beef stew meat, cut into chunks
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 celery stalks, sliced
• 1 cup pearl barley
• 8 cups beef broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Directions

1. In a large bowl, toss the beef chunks with flour until well coated.
2. In a Dutch oven or large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the beef to the pot and cook until browned on all sides. Remove the beef from the pot and set aside.
4. In the same pot, add the onion and garlic. Cook until the onion is soft and translucent.
5. Add the carrots and celery to the pot and cook for another 5 minutes.
6. Return the beef to the pot and add the pearl barley, beef broth, dried thyme, and bay leaf. Season with salt and black pepper.
7. Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender and the barley is cooked through.
8. Remove the bay leaf and season the stew with additional salt and pepper, if needed.
9. Serve the Alberta Beef Barley Stew hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley.
10. Enjoy!

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