How to Cook Instant Pot Beef Barley Soup in 30 Minutes

Ever wondered how to make a hearty, comforting soup in just 30 minutes? If you’re craving a warm, satisfying meal but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen, you’re in luck! This Instant Pot Beef Barley Soup recipe is the perfect solution. Packed with flavor and ready in no time, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your household. Let’s dive into the steps to create this delicious and quick meal.

Instant Pot Beef Barley Soup is a hearty and comforting dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or chilly evenings. What makes this recipe special is its quick preparation time without sacrificing flavor. The Instant Pot helps to tenderize the beef and cook the barley to perfection in just 30 minutes. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal prepping for the week, this soup is a versatile and satisfying option.

List of Ingredients and Measurements

To make Instant Pot Beef Barley Soup, you’ll need the following key ingredients:

1. Beef: 1 lb (450g) stew beef, cut into bite-sized pieces – Beef adds rich flavor and protein to the soup. You can use chuck roast or sirloin for a leaner option.
2. Barley: 1/2 cup (100g) pearl barley – Barley adds a hearty texture and nutty flavor. You can substitute with farro or quinoa for a different texture.
3. Onion: 1 medium onion, diced – Onion provides a savory base for the soup. You can use shallots for a milder flavor.
4. Carrots: 2 medium carrots, diced – Carrots add sweetness and color. You can use parsnips for a similar flavor.
5. Celery: 2 celery stalks, diced – Celery adds a crisp texture and fresh flavor. You can use fennel for a different twist.
6. Garlic: 2 cloves garlic, minced – Garlic enhances the flavor of the soup. You can use garlic powder as a substitute.
7. Beef Broth: 4 cups (960ml) beef broth – Beef broth provides a rich, savory base. You can use vegetable broth for a lighter flavor.
8. Tomato Paste: 2 tbsp (30ml) tomato paste – Tomato paste adds depth of flavor and a slight tanginess. You can use tomato sauce as a substitute.
9. Bay Leaves: 2 bay leaves – Bay leaves add a subtle herbal flavor. You can use thyme or rosemary for a different flavor profile.
10. Salt and Pepper: To taste – Seasonings enhance the overall flavor of the soup. Adjust to your preference.
11. Olive Oil: 1 tbsp (15ml) olive oil – Olive oil is used for sautéing the vegetables. You can use vegetable oil as a substitute.

Substitutions and Variations

• Beef: You can use ground beef or ground turkey for a different texture.
• Barley: Farro or quinoa can be used instead of barley for a different texture.
• Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like potatoes, peas, or green beans for added nutrition.
• Broth: Chicken or vegetable broth can be used for a lighter flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make Instant Pot Beef Barley Soup:

1. Sauté the Vegetables: Select the Sauté function on your Instant Pot. Add the olive oil and heat until shimmering. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes, until the vegetables are softened.
2. Add the Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the Instant Pot and sauté for another minute, until fragrant.
3. Brown the Beef: Add the beef to the Instant Pot and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
4. Add the Barley: Add the pearl barley to the Instant Pot and stir to combine with the beef and vegetables.
5. Add the Broth and Seasonings: Pour in the beef broth and stir well. Add the tomato paste, bay leaves, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
6. Pressure Cook: Secure the lid on the Instant Pot and set the valve to “Sealing.” Select the Manual/Pressure Cook function and set the time for 10 minutes at high pressure.
7. Natural Release: Once the cooking time is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes. Then, carefully turn the valve to “Venting” to release any remaining pressure.
8. Serve: Remove the bay leaves and stir the soup. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve the soup hot with your favorite bread or crackers.

Tips for Cooking and Preparing

• Browning the Beef: Browning the beef adds depth of flavor to the soup. Make sure to stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
• Barley: Rinse the barley before adding it to the Instant Pot to remove any excess starch.
• Vegetables: Cut the vegetables into similar sizes to ensure even cooking.
• Broth: Use high-quality broth for the best flavor. You can also make your own broth for added depth of flavor.

Assembly

To assemble the Instant Pot Beef Barley Soup, simply follow the cooking steps outlined above. Once the soup is cooked, you can garnish it with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for added flavor and presentation.

Tips for Presentation

• Garnishes: Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a dollop of sour cream for a finishing touch.
• Serving: Serve the soup in bowls with a side of crusty bread or crackers.
• Presentation: Arrange the bowls on a serving tray or table for an inviting presentation.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Instant Pot Beef Barley Soup can be made ahead of time and stored for later use. Here’s how:

• Refrigerator: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Freezer: To freeze, place the cooled soup in an airtight container or freezer bag and store for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Recipe Variations

If you’re feeling adventurous, try these creative variations:

• Chicken Barley Soup: Replace the beef with chicken breast or thighs for a lighter option.
• Vegetable Barley Soup: Omit the beef and add more vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach for a vegetarian option.
• Spicy Beef Barley Soup: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the Beef: Be careful not to overcook the beef, as it can become tough. Brown it just until it’s no longer pink.
• Not Rinsing the Barley: Rinse the barley before adding it to the Instant Pot to remove excess starch and prevent the soup from becoming too thick.
• Underseasoning: Taste the soup before serving and adjust the seasoning if needed.

Nutritional Information

Instant Pot Beef Barley Soup is a hearty and nutritious meal. Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional information per serving (based on 6 servings):

• Calories: Approximately 300 kcal
• Protein: 25g
• Fat: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fiber: 5g
• Sodium: 800mg

Conclusion

Instant Pot Beef Barley Soup is a delicious and comforting meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or chilly evenings. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can create this hearty soup in just 30 minutes. So, why not give it a try and enjoy the rich flavors and comforting warmth of this Instant Pot Beef Barley Soup? Happy cooking!

FAQs

Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, you can use ground beef, chicken, or turkey for a different texture and flavor.

How long should I cook the soup?

Cook the soup for 10 minutes at high pressure in the Instant Pot, followed by a 10-minute natural release.

Can I freeze the soup?

Yes, you can freeze the soup in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

What’s the best way to store leftover soup?

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Can I use a different type of grain?

Yes, you can use farro or quinoa instead of barley for a different texture.

With these tips and tricks, you’re ready to make the perfect Instant Pot Beef Barley Soup. Enjoy!