Beef Mushroom Barley Soup

Ingredients and Weight:

• Beef: 500 grams (1 pound)
• Mushrooms: 200 grams (about 1 cup)
• Barley: 100 grams (about 3/4 cup)
• Onion: 1 large, chopped
• Garlic: 4-5 cloves, minced
• Vegetable oil: 2 tablespoons
• Salt and pepper: to taste
• Water or beef broth: 4-5 cups

Preparation Time:

• Preparation Time: 20-25 minutes
• Cooking Time: 3-4 hours (slow cooker) or 2 hours (stove-top)

Difficulty Level:

Level 3 (Moderate difficulty)

Preparation Method Steps:

1. In a large pot or slow cooker, heat the vegetable oil and add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Saute until the onion is soft and translucent.
2. Add the beef chunks and cook until the meat is browned on all sides.
3. Pour in the water or beef broth and bring to a boil.
4. Add the barley and reduce the heat to a simmer.
5. Simmer for 2-3 hours, or until the beef is tender and the soup has a rich flavor.
6. Add the mushrooms and continue to cook for another 30 minutes to an hour, depending on your preference for mushroom texture.
7. Season with salt and pepper, to taste.
8. Serve hot with a side of rice or noodles, if desired.

Nutritional Information: (per serving, assuming 8 servings total) Calories: Approximately 300-400 calories per serving, depending on the amount of oil used and other factors. Protein: 30-40 grams per serving Fat: 15-20 grams per serving (including saturated fat) Carbohydrates: 30-40 grams per serving (including fiber)

Dish Characteristics:

• A hearty and comforting soup that is rich in flavor and texture.
• The combination of beef, mushrooms, and barley provides a satisfying and nourishing meal.
• The dish is low in fat and high in protein and fiber, making it a healthy option for a colder weather meal.

User Comments:

1. "This soup was delicious! The flavors were rich and the texture was perfect."
2. "I love the combination of beef, mushrooms, and barley in this soup. It's comforting and filling."
3. "This is a great recipe for colder weather. It's hearty and warm and tastes even better the next day."
4. "I added some herbs like thyme and rosemary to enhance the flavor, which was great."
5. "Make sure to use good quality beef for best results."

Special Precautions and Tips:

• Use a slow cooker or a heavy pot to ensure even cooking and prevent evaporation.
• If using a stove-top, make sure to keep the soup at a low boil to prevent evaporation and burning.
• Add more water or broth if the soup becomes too thick during cooking.
• This soup is best when made in advance so that the flavors can blend together overnight or for several hours before serving.