Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Savory Hamburger Barley Vegetable Medley?
It is a heartwarming soup that captures a fusion of Scandinavian and American culinary traditions, featuring lean ground beef, vegetables, and barley.
Who is the original contributor of this recipe?
The recipe was submitted by Margaret Peterson.
Which cookbook does this recipe originate from?
It comes from the 'Scandinavian and American Recipes' cookbook.
How much ground beef is required for this recipe?
The recipe calls for 1.5 lbs of lean ground beef.
How should the ground beef be prepared?
The beef should be browned over medium heat and drained of any excess fat to keep the soup lean.
How much water do I need to add to the soup?
You will need to add 6 cups of water.
Can I use instant beef bouillon instead of cubes?
Yes, you can use 3 teaspoons of instant beef bouillon as a substitute for 3 beef bouillon cubes.
How many carrots are used in this vegetable medley?
The recipe uses 2 cups of sliced carrots.
What is the quantity and preparation for the onions?
You should use 1.5 cups of coarsely chopped onions.
How much celery is included in the recipe?
The medley includes 1.5 cups of coarsely chopped celery.
Is there green pepper in this soup?
Yes, the recipe includes 1/2 cup of coarsely chopped green pepper.
How much barley is needed for the dish?
The recipe requires 1/2 cup of barley, which should be rinsed before adding.
Why is ketchup used in this recipe?
1/4 cup of ketchup is added to provide a unique flavor to the soup.
What dried herbs are used for seasoning?
The recipe uses 1/2 teaspoon of dried basil and 2 bay leaves.
What are the recommended amounts for salt and pepper?
It suggests 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/8 teaspoon of pepper, or to taste.
How many bay leaves should I add to the pot?
You should add 2 bay leaves for flavor, but remember to remove them before serving.
What type of tomato products are required?
The recipe calls for 28 ounces of canned tomatoes (diced or crushed) and 8 ounces of tomato sauce.
Is there a garnish suggested for this soup?
Yes, 1/4 cup of optional chopped parsley can be stirred in just before serving for freshness.
What is the first step in the cooking instructions?
The first step is to brown the ground beef in a large pot and drain the fat.
How long does the medley need to simmer?
The soup should simmer uncovered for about 1 hour.
Do I simmer the soup with a lid on or off?
The instructions specify to simmer the mixture uncovered.
How do I know when the soup is finished cooking?
The soup is ready when the barley and vegetables have become tender after simmering.
Can I adjust the seasonings after cooking?
Yes, you should taste and adjust the seasonings as needed after the simmering process.
How many ingredients total are in this recipe?
There are 16 ingredients in this recipe.
What kind of meal is this dish appropriate for?
It is perfect for family gatherings, a cozy lunch, or as a nourishing meal that warms the soul.
Is this dish considered healthy?
Yes, it is described as a nourishing meal with lean ground beef and vibrant vegetables, and it is tagged as healthy.
What are some of the tags associated with this recipe?
Tags include soup, hamburger, barley, vegetable, comfort food, and family meal.
What should I do with the bay leaves before eating?
You must remove the bay leaves from the pot before serving the soup.
Is the barley added at the beginning or end?
The barley is incorporated into the pot along with the vegetables and spices before bringing the mixture to a boil.
What is the overall flavor profile of this medley?
It is a savory symphony of flavors featuring a rich tomato base, beefy bouillon, and aromatic herbs like basil and bay leaves.