Savory Barley Beef Stew for Two
Warm up with this delightful Savory Barley Beef Stew for Two, perfect for a cozy night in. Featuring tender lean ground beef and a medley of vegetables simmered in a rich, tangy tomato base, this stew is packed with flavor and nutrients. The addition of pearl barley not only thickens the stew but also adds a delightful chewy texture. Serve with crusty bread for a complete meal that’s sure to impress your loved one!
2
Servings
216
Calories
9
Ingredients
Ingredients
lean ground beef
1/2 lb (raw)
chopped onion
1/4 cup (fresh)
chopped celery
1/4 cup (fresh)
tomato juice
2 1/4 cups (canned or fresh)
water
1/2 cup (filtered)
medium pearl barley
1/4 cup (uncooked)
chili powder
1 teaspoon (dry)
salt
1/2 teaspoon (dry)
black pepper
1/2 teaspoon (ground)
Instructions
1
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, add the lean ground beef along with the chopped onion and celery. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned and no longer pink, approximately 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
2
Stir in the tomato juice, water, and pearl barley, along with the chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine all ingredients.
3
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the saucepan and let the stew simmer for 50-60 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the barley is tender and the flavors have melded together.
4
Once cooked, remove from heat and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your warm bowl of Savory Barley Beef Stew!
Nutrition Information
7.5g
Fat
24g
Carbs
14.5g
Protein
3.5g
Fiber
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Barley Beef Stew for Two?
It is a hearty and nutritious stew made with lean ground beef, pearl barley, and a tangy tomato base, designed specifically for a two-person meal.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe is portioned to serve 2 people.
What are the primary ingredients?
The main ingredients include 1/2 lb lean ground beef, pearl barley, tomato juice, chopped onion, and celery.
How many calories are in each serving?
Each serving contains approximately 216 calories.
Is this recipe high in protein?
Yes, it provides 14.5g of protein per serving.
How long does the stew need to simmer?
The stew should simmer on low heat for 50-60 minutes.
What is the purpose of pearl barley in this recipe?
Pearl barley adds a chewy texture and acts as a natural thickener for the stew.
Can I use quick-cooking barley instead?
Yes, but you will need to significantly reduce the simmering time to avoid the barley becoming mushy.
What side dishes go well with this beef stew?
It is best served with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
Is this a one-pot meal?
Yes, the entire dish is prepared in a single medium saucepan.
What is the fat content per serving?
Each serving contains about 7.5g of fat.
Does this recipe contain fiber?
Yes, it offers 3.5g of fiber per serving, thanks to the barley and vegetables.
Can I substitute ground turkey for beef?
Yes, ground turkey or ground chicken can be used as a leaner alternative.
Is the stew spicy?
It contains 1 teaspoon of chili powder, which adds a mild warmth but is not overly spicy.
What type of tomato juice should I use?
You can use canned or fresh tomato juice depending on your preference.
How do I know when the barley is done?
The barley is ready when it is tender to the bite but still has a slight chew.
Should I drain the fat from the beef?
Yes, the instructions recommend draining any excess fat after browning the meat.
Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely! Carrots, peas, or diced potatoes would be excellent additions.
What is the total carbohydrate count?
There are 24g of carbohydrates per serving.
Can this recipe be doubled?
Yes, you can easily double the ingredients to serve four people.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, stews often taste even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze Savory Barley Beef Stew?
Yes, this stew freezes well. Store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
Is pearl barley gluten-free?
No, barley contains gluten. For a gluten-free version, consider using brown rice or gluten-free oats.
What is the preparation time for the vegetables?
Prep time is minimal, requiring only the chopping of 1/4 cup each of onion and celery.
Can I use beef broth instead of water?
Yes, substituting water with beef broth will result in a richer, deeper flavor.
What seasoning is used?
The stew is seasoned with chili powder, salt, and black pepper.
Does the stew thicken as it cools?
Yes, the barley will continue to absorb liquid, making the stew thicker as it sits.
What heat setting is used for browning the meat?
The meat should be browned over medium heat.
Is this a budget-friendly recipe?
Yes, it uses simple, cost-effective ingredients like ground beef, barley, and canned juice.