minimal effort to make. This slow-cooker recipe is the perfect example of how a handful of simple ingredients can be transformed into a deeply flavorful, satisfying meal. It’s the kind of dish that fills your home with mouthwatering aromas while it gently simmers throughout the day, creating anticipation for a nourishing dinner.
By using beef chuck, the long cooking process breaks down the meat until it’s fork-tender, absorbing the richness of the broth and the natural flavors of the vegetables. Pearl barley provides a chewy, wholesome base that thickens the stew naturally, making it both filling and nutritious. Mushrooms add a deep, earthy tone while carrots, celery, and leeks lend freshness and a hint of sweetness. A sprig of thyme and a splash of soy sauce round out the broth, giving it a comforting depth that feels homemade and rustic. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or planning meals ahead, this dish is a simple yet delicious way to nourish both body and soul.
Ingredients
- 1¼ pounds boneless beef chuck (in one piece)
- 1 cup pearl barley
- ½ pound cremini mushrooms, quartered
- 4 stalks celery, quartered
- 6 medium carrots, quartered
- 2 medium leeks, sliced (white and light green parts only)
- 1 sprig thyme
- 4 cups low-sodium beef broth
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 cup water
- Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste
- Optional: horseradish, for serving
Servings: 6
Instructions
Place the beef chuck, pearl barley, mushrooms, celery, carrots, leeks, thyme, beef broth, soy sauce, 1 cup of water, salt, and pepper into your slow cooker. Cover and cook on low for about 8 hours without lifting the lid. After cooking, skim off any excess fat from the surface. Remove the beef and place it on a cutting board to cool slightly. Slice or shred it into bite-sized pieces. If desired, adjust the consistency of the stew by adding a bit of water to the barley and vegetable mixture. Serve the stew hot in shallow bowls, topped with the sliced or shredded beef. Add a dollop of horseradish on the side for a bold finish, if you like.
Nutritional and Dietary Notes
This meal is rich in protein from the beef and provides complex carbohydrates and fiber thanks to the pearl barley. It’s a good source of vitamins and minerals from the variety of vegetables. However, those watching sodium intake should be mindful of the soy sauce and broth, and choose low-sodium or no-salt-added versions when possible. The dish is naturally dairy-free and nut-free, making it suitable for many dietary needs, but not ideal for vegetarians or vegans due to the meat content.
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