Instant Pot Beef And Barley Soup Recipe

If you’re craving a warm, hearty, and nutritious soup, this Instant Pot Beef and Barley Soup is the perfect recipe. Packed with tender beef, wholesome barley, and a medley of vegetables, this soup delivers rich flavors with minimal effort. Thanks to the Instant Pot, you can enjoy a slow-simmered taste in a fraction of the time.

Why You’ll Love This Simple Soup Recipe

• Quick & Easy . The Instant Pot drastically cuts down the cooking time, making this a hassle-free meal.
• Nutrient-Packed . Loaded with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins from the beef, barley, and vegetables.
• Comforting & Satisfying . A perfect blend of rich, savory flavors that warms you up from the inside.
• Great for Meal Prep . This soup stores well and tastes even better the next day.

Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight dinner or meal prep inspiration, this one-pot dish is sure to satisfy.

What Does Beef And Barley Soup Taste Like?

Beef and Barley Soup has a rich, hearty, and deeply savory flavor with layers of warmth and comfort. The tender beef brings a meaty, umami-rich taste, while the barley adds a mild, nutty flavor with a chewy texture that absorbs the broth beautifully. The beef broth infuses the soup with a deep, meaty richness, enhanced by aromatics like onions, garlic, bay leaf, and thyme, which provide an earthy and herbaceous undertone.

The carrots and celery contribute a touch of natural sweetness, balancing out the robust flavors, while the tomato paste adds a subtle acidity that brightens the broth. Mushrooms add an extra umami depth, making the soup even more savory. The Worcestershire sauce enhances the complexity with a hint of tangy, smoky undertones.

Overall, beef and barley soup is warm, thick, and comforting, with a satisfying combination of meaty, nutty, and herby flavors, perfect for a cozy meal on a chilly day.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Beef Stew Meat - Cubed chuck roast or stew beef works best for this dish, as it becomes tender and flavorful after pressure cooking. The beef adds richness and protein, making the soup hearty and satisfying.
• Olive Oil - Used to brown the beef, which enhances the depth of flavor by creating a caramelized crust on the meat. It also helps sauté the aromatics.
• Onion - A key aromatic that forms the flavorful base of the soup. It softens and infuses the broth with natural sweetness.
• Garlic - Adds savory depth and enhances the overall umami of the dish.
• Carrots & Celery - These classic soup vegetables contribute natural sweetness, color, and texture, balancing the richness of the beef and barley.
• Mushrooms (Optional) - Elevate the umami profile, adding an earthy and meaty depth to the soup.
• Tomato Paste - Provides a slight acidity and concentrated tomato flavor, which balances the richness of the beef and broth.
• Beef Broth - The liquid base of the soup that infuses it with a deep, meaty flavor while keeping the ingredients tender and moist.
• Pearl Barley - A hearty grain that absorbs the soup’s flavors while providing a chewy, slightly nutty texture. It also naturally thickens the broth as it cooks.
• Bay Leaf & Thyme - Classic aromatic herbs that add warmth and complexity to the broth, enhancing the soup’s depth of flavor.
• Salt & Black Pepper - Essential seasonings that balance and enhance all the flavors in the dish.
• Worcestershire Sauce (Optional) - A savory, slightly tangy condiment that adds an extra layer of umami and depth, elevating the overall taste of the soup.

These ingredients come together in the Instant Pot to create a rich, comforting, and flavorful soup with a tender beef texture and a satisfying barley chew.

How To Make Beef And Barley Soup

1. Brown the Beef . Set the Instant Pot to Sauté mode, add olive oil, and sear the beef until browned on all sides. This step locks in flavor. Remove and set aside.
2. Sauté the Aromatics . In the same pot, add onions, garlic, carrots, celery, and mushrooms. Cook for about 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Build the Flavor Base . Stir in tomato paste, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Let it cook for another 1-2 minutes to enhance the depth of flavor.
4. Add the Broth & Barley . Return the seared beef to the pot. Pour in beef broth, Worcestershire sauce (if using), pearl barley, and a bay leaf.
5. Pressure Cook . Seal the lid and set the Instant Pot to High Pressure for 25 minutes. Once done, let the pressure naturally release for 10 minutes before doing a quick release.
6. Serve & Enjoy . Remove the bay leaf, stir, and adjust seasoning if needed. Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley for a burst of color and flavor.

Tips And Tricks

Beef and barley soup is a hearty, comforting dish, but getting it just right requires some technique. Follow these tips and tricks to ensure a flavorful, well-balanced soup every time:

• Use the Right Cut of Beef – Chuck roast or stew beef works best, as they become tender under pressure cooking.
• Sauté for Extra Flavor – Browning the beef and vegetables first creates a richer soup.
• Rinse the Barley – Helps remove excess starch and prevents the soup from becoming too thick.
• Add More Broth if Needed – Barley absorbs liquid, so you may need to adjust before serving.

Variations

Beef and barley soup is a comforting, hearty dish that can be customized in many ways to fit different tastes, dietary preferences, and ingredient availability. Here are some creative variations to try:

• Vegetable-Packed - Add zucchini, peas, or spinach for extra nutrients.
• Spicy Twist - Mix in a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat.
• Gluten-Free Option - Swap barley with brown rice or quinoa.
• Slow Cooker Method - Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

What To Eat With Beef And Barley Soup

Beef and barley soup is a hearty and satisfying dish, but pairing it with the right sides can enhance the meal even more. Here are some delicious accompaniments to serve with this comforting soup:

• Bread - Perfect for dipping.
• Salad - A fresh contrast to the rich flavors.
• Roasted Vegetables - Adds more depth to the meal.
• Grated Parmesan - A sprinkle on top enhances the savory taste.

How Long Do They Last?

Beef and barley soup keeps well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days when stored in an airtight container. The flavors deepen over time, making it even more delicious.

Can You Freeze Them?

Yes! This soup freezes well, but since barley continues to absorb liquid, you may want to cook and freeze it separately.

If freezing, let the soup cool completely and store in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed.

More Incredible Instant Pot Recipes

• Instant Pot Butter Chicken
• Caldo de Res
• Chicken Vindaloo
• Mango Cheesecake
• Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup

Instant Pot Beef And Barley Soup Recipe | Simple Hearty Soup

Ingredients

• ▢ 1 1/2 pounds Stew Meat
• ▢ 1 tbsp Olive Oil
• ▢ 1 Onion , chopped
• ▢ 2 cloves Garlic , minced
• ▢ 2 Carrots , sliced
• ▢ 2 ribs Celery , chopped
• ▢ 1 cup Mushrooms , sliced1
• ▢ 1 tbsp Tomato Paste
• ▢ 6 cups Beef Broth
• ▢ 3/4 cup Pearl Barley , rinsed and drained
• ▢ 1 Bay Leaf
• ▢ 1 tsp Dried Thyme
• ▢ 1 tsp Kosher Salt
• ▢ 1/2 tsp Ground Black Pepper
• ▢ 1 tbsp Worcestershire Sauce

Instructions

• Brown the Beef . Set the Instant Pot to Sauté mode, add olive oil, and sear the beef until browned on all sides. This step locks in flavor. Remove and set aside.
• Sauté the Aromatics . In the same pot, add onions, garlic, carrots, celery, and mushrooms. Cook for about 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
• Build the Flavor Base . Stir in tomato paste, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Let it cook for another 1-2 minutes to enhance the depth of flavor.
• Add the Broth & Barley . Return the seared beef to the pot. Pour in beef broth, Worcestershire sauce (if using), pearl barley, and a bay leaf.
• Pressure Cook . Seal the lid and set the Instant Pot to High Pressure for 25 minutes. Once done, let the pressure naturally release for 10 minutes before doing a quick release.
• Serve & Enjoy . Remove the bay leaf, stir, and adjust seasoning if needed. Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley for a burst of color and flavor.

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Instant Pot Beef And Barley Soup Recipe | Simple Hearty Soup

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 pounds Stew Meat
• 1 tbsp Olive Oil
• 1 Onion chopped
• 2 cloves Garlic minced
• 2 Carrots sliced
• 2 ribs Celery chopped
• 1 cup Mushrooms sliced1
• 1 tbsp Tomato Paste
• 6 cups Beef Broth
• 3/4 cup Pearl Barley rinsed and drained
• 1 Bay Leaf
• 1 tsp Dried Thyme
• 1 tsp Kosher Salt
• 1/2 tsp Ground Black Pepper
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire Sauce

Instructions

• Brown the Beef . Set the Instant Pot to Sauté mode, add olive oil, and sear the beef until browned on all sides. This step locks in flavor. Remove and set aside.
• Sauté the Aromatics . In the same pot, add onions, garlic, carrots, celery, and mushrooms. Cook for about 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
• Build the Flavor Base . Stir in tomato paste, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Let it cook for another 1-2 minutes to enhance the depth of flavor.
• Add the Broth & Barley . Return the seared beef to the pot. Pour in beef broth, Worcestershire sauce (if using), pearl barley, and a bay leaf.
• Pressure Cook . Seal the lid and set the Instant Pot to High Pressure for 25 minutes. Once done, let the pressure naturally release for 10 minutes before doing a quick release.
• Serve & Enjoy . Remove the bay leaf, stir, and adjust seasoning if needed. Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley for a burst of color and flavor.

Instant Pot Beef And Barley Soup Recipe | Simple Hearty Soup https://twosleevers.com/instant-pot-beef-and-barley-soup/

If you love the nostalgic flavors of classic strawberry shortcake, you’re in for a treat! These Strawberry Shortcake Bars combine a buttery shortbread crust, creamy strawberry filling, and a sweet crumb topping for a dessert that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Each bite is bursting with fresh strawberries and rich vanilla flavor, making it the perfect dessert for spring, summer, or any time you’re craving a fruity, creamy delight.

Why You’ll Love This Delicious Dessert

• Easy to Make . Simple steps and basic ingredients make this recipe a breeze!
• Perfect Balance of Flavors . A buttery shortbread base, luscious strawberry filling, and crumbly topping create a delightful contrast in texture and taste.
• Great for Any Occasion . These bars are ideal for potlucks, summer gatherings, or as a sweet treat with coffee.
• Customizable . Use fresh or frozen strawberries, swap the crust, or even make them gluten-free!

With their vibrant color and irresistible taste, these Strawberry Shortcake Bars will quickly become a family favorite. Whether you’re making them for a picnic or just to satisfy your sweet tooth, this recipe is a must-try!

What Do Strawberry Shortcake Bars Taste Like?

Strawberry Shortcake Bars take the classic flavors of strawberry shortcake and turn them into a convenient, sliceable dessert.

Instead of assembling layers of biscuits, cream, and berries, these bars feature a buttery shortbread crust, a creamy strawberry filling, and a sweet crumble topping.

The result? A portable, easy-to-serve dessert that tastes just like the beloved classic!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Shortbread Crust

• Unsalted Butter- Adds richness and moisture, giving the crust a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture.Ensures the shortbread base holds together without being too dry.
• Granulated Sugar - Provides sweetness while allowing the buttery flavor to shine. Helps create a light crispness in the shortbread crust.
• All-Purpose Flour - Forms the base structure of the crust, giving it stability and a delicate crunch. Absorbs moisture from the butter to create a tender yet sturdy texture.
• Salt - Balances the sweetness and enhances the buttery flavor of the crust. Brings out the depth of flavors in the dessert.
• Vanilla Extract - Adds a warm, aromatic flavor that enhances the shortbread and complements the strawberries.

Strawberry Filling

• Fresh Strawberries - The main ingredient, providing natural sweetness, juiciness, and color. Creates a jammy texture when baked, making the bars flavorful and vibrant.
• Granulated Sugar - Helps macerate the strawberries, drawing out their natural juices for a soft, luscious filling. Enhances the natural sweetness of the berries.
• Cornstarch - Acts as a thickener, preventing the strawberry filling from becoming too runny. Ensures the bars hold their shape and don’t get soggy.
• Lemon Juice - Brightens the flavor of the strawberries, making them taste more vibrant and fresh. Balances the sweetness with a slight tangy contrast.

Topping and Garnish

• All-Purpose Flour - Forms the base of the streusel topping, giving it a crumbly texture. Absorbs some of the butter to create the perfect golden, crunchy finish.
• Granulated Sugar - Adds sweetness to the topping and caramelizes slightly when baked, enhancing the texture.
• Unsalted Butter - Helps create the crumbly, streusel-like texture for the topping. Adds a rich, buttery flavor that complements the shortbread and strawberry filling.
• Whipped cream - A light, airy topping that balances the richness of the bars. Adds a creamy contrast to the buttery crust and fruity filling.
• Fresh strawberries - Enhances the presentation and flavor by adding a pop of fresh fruit. Complements the baked strawberry filling with a bright, juicy bite.

How To Make Strawberry Shortcake Bars

1. Prepare the Shortbread Crust . Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line a 9x13-inch baking dish with parchment paper. In a large bowl, cream together the butter, sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth. Add the flour and mix until a crumbly dough forms. Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Bake for 15 minutes or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and set aside.
2. Make the Strawberry Filling . In a medium saucepan, combine the chopped strawberries, sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens and the strawberries become soft (about 5-7 minutes). Remove from heat and let cool slightly before spreading over the shortbread crust.
3. Prepare the Crumb Topping . In a bowl, mix the flour, sugar, and melted butter until crumbly and sand-like in texture. Sprinkle evenly over the strawberry filling.
4. Bake to Perfection . Return the pan to the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbling. Let the bars cool completely before slicing for clean cuts and best texture.
5. Garnish and Serve . Top with whipped cream and fresh strawberries before serving for an extra-special touch.

Tips And Tricks

Want to ensure your Strawberry Shortcake Bars turn out buttery, fruity, and perfectly textured every time? Follow these expert tips and tricks for a flawless dessert:

• Use Fresh Strawberries for the Best Flavor . If using frozen strawberries, thaw and drain them well to prevent excess moisture in the filling.
• Don’t Skip the Cornstarch . This ensures the filling holds together instead of becoming runny.
• Let the Bars Cool Before Slicing . For neat, clean slices, allow the bars to cool completely before cutting. Refrigerating them for 30 minutes helps!
• Adjust the Sweetness . If your strawberries are extra sweet, reduce the sugar slightly. If they’re tart, add a bit more sugar to balance the flavor.

Variations

Looking to put a twist on your Strawberry Shortcake Bars? Try these creative variations to customize the flavors, textures, and ingredients while keeping the essence of this classic dessert:

• Cheesecake Bars - Add a layer of sweetened cream cheese over the crust before adding the strawberry filling for a cheesecake-like version.
• Gluten-Free - Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend to make them gluten-free.
• Strawberry Lemon - Add extra lemon zest to the filling and crust for a citrusy twist.
• Mixed Berry - Swap out half of the strawberries for blueberries or raspberries for a mixed berry variation.

What To Enjoy With Strawberry Shortcake Bars

Strawberry Shortcake Bars are a sweet, fruity, and buttery dessert, making them versatile to pair with a variety of drinks, toppings, and complementary dishes. Here are some of the best ways to serve and enjoy them:

• Vanilla ice cream – For a cold and creamy contrast.
• A drizzle of white chocolate – For a touch of elegance.
• A glass of rosé or champagne – If serving for a special occasion.

How Long Do They Last?

Strawberry Shortcake Bars can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, maintaining their freshness and texture. The buttery shortbread crust holds up well, while the strawberry filling stays juicy and flavorful.

If you prefer a firmer texture, refrigerate them before serving.

Can You Freeze Them?

To store for a longer period, you can freeze the bars for up to 2 months. Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container to prevent freezer burn.

When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes.

More Sweet Treats

• No Bake Peanut Butter Bars
• Low Carb Chocolate Chip Cookies
• Crustless French Silk Pie
• Apple Upside Down Cake
• Keto Cream Cheese Brownies
• Strawberry Crumble

Watch The Video

Strawberry Shortcake Bars Recipe | Easy Strawberry Bars

Ingredients

For The Base

• ▢ 2 cups All Purpose Flour
• ▢ 1/2 cup Granulated Sugar
• ▢ 2 tsp Baking Powder
• ▢ 1/2 tsp Kosher Salt
• ▢ 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter , cold and cubed
• ▢ 1 tsp Vanilla Extract

For The Filling

• ▢ 2 cups Strawberries , sliced
• ▢ 2 tbsp Granulated Sugar
• ▢ 1 tbsp Lemon Juice
• ▢ 1 tbsp Cornstarch

Crumb Topping

• ▢ 3/4 cups All Purpose Flour
• ▢ 1/4 cup Granulated Sugar
• ▢ 1/4 cup Unsalted Butter , cold and cubed

Instructions

• Prepare the Shortbread Crust . Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line a 9x13-inch baking dish with parchment paper. In a large bowl, cream together the butter, sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth. Add the flour and mix until a crumbly dough forms. Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Bake for 15 minutes or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and set aside.
• Make the Strawberry Filling . In a medium saucepan, combine the chopped strawberries, sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens and the strawberries become soft (about 5-7 minutes). Remove from heat and let cool slightly before spreading over the shortbread crust.
• Prepare the Crumb Topping . In a bowl, mix the flour, sugar, and melted butter until crumbly and sand-like in texture. Sprinkle evenly over the strawberry filling.
• Bake to Perfection . Return the pan to the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbling. Let the bars cool completely before slicing for clean cuts and best texture.
• Garnish and Serve . Top with whipped cream and fresh strawberries before serving for an extra-special touch.

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Nutrition