This Beef and Barley Casserole is a hearty and delicious dish that is perfect for cold winter nights. Made with tender beef, wholesome barley, and a medley of vegetables, this casserole is packed with flavor and comforting aromas. It's a one-pot wonder that will satisfy your cravings and keep you warm. Serve it with a fresh green salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs beef stew meat, cubed
- 1 cup pearl barley
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups beef broth
- 1 cup red wine
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large oven-safe pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the beef cubes and cook until browned on all sides. Remove the beef from the pot and set aside.
- In the same pot, add the chopped onion, carrots, celery, and minced garlic. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
- Return the beef to the pot and add the pearl barley, beef broth, red wine, tomato paste, dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then cover the pot with a lid and transfer it to the preheated oven.
- Bake for 1 hour, or until the beef is tender and the barley is cooked through.
- Remove the pot from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Serve the beef and barley casserole hot, garnished with fresh thyme or parsley, if desired.
Interesting Facts
Barley is a nutritious grain that is high in fiber and rich in vitamins and minerals. It's a great source of energy and can help improve digestion.
Beef stew meat is commonly used in this recipe, but you can also substitute it with other cuts of beef like chuck roast or sirloin.
You can make this recipe ahead of time and reheat it when you're ready to serve. The flavors will meld together even more, resulting in an even tastier casserole.