Spinach adds a fresh boost to this beefy soup that’s just as classic as it is chock-full of flavor.

BEEF BARLEY SOUP WITH SPINACH

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INGREDIENTS:

  • 2-1/2 pounds beef Stew Meat, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 5 cups water
  • 1 package (.9 to 1.43 ounces) dry onion-mushroom soup mix
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme leaves
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon pepper
  • 1/2 cup medium pearled barley
  • 4 cups loosely packed fresh baby spinach

COOKING:

  1. Combine beef, water, soup mix, thyme, salt and pepper in stockpot; bring to a boil. Reduce heat; cover tightly and simmer 60 minutes.
  2. Stir in barley; bring to a boil. Reduce heat; continue simmering, covered, 45 minutes to 1 hour or until beef is fork-tender and barley is tender. Stir in spinach; cover and remove from heat. Let stand 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper, if desired.

SAFE HANDLING TIPS:

  • Wash hands with soap and water before cooking and always after touching raw meat.
  • Separate raw meat from other foods.
  • Wash all cutting boards, utensils, and dishes after touching raw meat.
  • Do not reuse marinades used on raw foods.
  • Wash all produce prior to use.
  • Cook beef until temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) for medium rare steaks and roasts 160°F(71°C) for ground beef.
  • Refrigerate food promptly.

With cattle outnumbering Nebraskans nearly four to one, beef production represents Nebraska’s single largest industry and the engine that powers the state’s economy. Raising beef is a complex process, but throughout the entire journey, the beef community shares a commitment to raising cattle in a safe, humane and environmentally sustainable way. Learn more about the people and the process involved in raising beef from pasture to plate.