Description
Indulge in the warmth of a steaming bowl of vegetarian barley soup, brimming with hearty vegetables and tender barley. This nourishing dish is perfect for chilly evenings or when you crave comfort food. Each spoonful delivers a delightful blend of flavors that will transport you to a cozy kitchen filled with laughter and love. Easy to prepare and adaptable to seasonal ingredients, it’s a wholesome choice for family dinners or meal prep. Get ready to savor this deliciously satisfying soup!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup pearl barley
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 6 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
- 2 cups fresh spinach or kale
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté until translucent.
- Add garlic, carrots, and celery; cook for about 5 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the pearl barley and diced tomatoes; cook for an additional 2 minutes.
- Gradually pour in vegetable broth and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Season with thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Cover and let simmer for 30-40 minutes until barley is tender.
- In the last few minutes, stir in spinach or kale until wilted.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 360mg
- Fat: 2g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Substitute barley with quinoa or farro for different textures. For added protein, consider mixing in canned beans or lentils. Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to five days; reheat gently on the stove.