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Vegetable Barley Soup

Vegetable Barley Soup
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Vegetable Barley Soup is a hearty and nourishing classic soup combining tender vegetables with wholesome pearled barley. This comforting recipe is packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals, offering rich, layered flavors and a satisfying texture. Perfect for any season, it’s easy to customize, one-pot, and ideal as a cozy, healthy meal that warms the soul.

Ingredients

Scale

Grains and Broth

  • 1 cup pearled barley
  • 6 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes

Vegetables

  • 2 medium carrots, chopped
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 2–3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups kale or spinach, chopped

Herbs and Seasonings

  • 2 sprigs fresh thyme
  • 2 bay leaves
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Other Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

  1. Prepare Your Vegetables: Start by chopping your carrots, celery, onions, and garlic into bite-sized pieces. Fresh, even cuts help the vegetables cook evenly and blend beautifully in the soup.
  2. Sauté for Flavor: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onions, carrots, and celery, cooking until they soften and release their natural sweetness, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in garlic for the last minute to avoid burning.
  3. Add Barley and Liquids: Pour in the vegetable broth and diced tomatoes, then stir in the pearled barley along with thyme and bay leaves. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer gently.
  4. Simmer and Stir: Let the soup simmer uncovered for 40-50 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the barley is tender and soup thickens to a comforting consistency.
  5. Add Leafy Greens and Season: About 5 minutes before serving, stir in kale or spinach to wilt them just right. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then remove herbs before serving.

Notes

  • Toast the barley lightly before cooking to enhance its nutty flavor.
  • Use homemade vegetable broth if possible for a richer base.
  • Add leafy greens at the end to preserve color and nutrients.
  • Adjust soup consistency by adding more water or broth as needed during simmering.
  • Let the soup rest for a few hours or overnight to deepen flavors.

Nutrition

Keywords: vegetable barley soup, hearty soup, nutritious soup, vegan soup, comfort food, healthy soup, one pot soup

Find it online: https://tastebudtrek.com/vegetable-barley-soup/