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Vegetable Barley Soup

Vegetable Barley Soup Recipe

Vegetable Barley Soup is a hearty, vegetable-filled soupwith pearl barley, a nutritious grain. The combination of vegetables likecarrots, celery, and green beans adds vibrant flavor and texture. Seasoned withherbs like rosemary, thyme, and bay leaf, the soup is simmered in vegetable orchicken broth for a rich, savory taste. Pearl barley is the star of the dish,offering a chewy texture and health benefits like fiber and protein.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Course: Soup
Cuisine: American
Calories: 160

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup pearl barley or any barley of your choice
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil for sautéing
  • 1 medium onion chopped
  • 2 carrots peeled and diced
  • 2 celery stalks diced
  • 2 garlic cloves minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme or 2 teaspoons fresh thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary or 2 teaspoons fresh rosemary
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 4 cups vegetable broth or chicken broth, if preferred
  • 2 cups water
  • 1 can 14.5 ounces diced tomatoes (or 2 fresh tomatoes, diced)
  • 1 cup green beans fresh or frozen, chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: Fresh parsley for garnish

Equipment

  • Large Pot or Dutch Oven
  • Cutting Board and Knife
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons
  • Wooden Spoon or Ladle
  • Colander
  • Can Opener

Method
 

  1. Sauté the Vegetables: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions, carrots, and celery, and sauté until the vegetables are tender and the onions are translucent (about 5-7 minutes).
  2. Add Garlic and Herbs: Stir in the minced garlic, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Add Broth and Barley: Pour in the vegetable broth, water, and diced tomatoes. Stir in the barley, making sure it's evenly distributed in the liquid.
  4. Simmer the Soup: Bring the soup to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for about 30 minutes, or until the barley is tender and the soup has thickened slightly.
  5. Add Green Beans and Season: Add the green beans to the pot and let them cook for an additional 10-15 minutes. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.
  6. Serve and Enjoy: Once everything is cooked, remove the bay leaf and discard it. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot and enjoy the hearty, nutritious meal.

Notes

I cooked this vegetable barley soup with my family and it was a big hit! Everyone enjoyed the comforting flavors and rich texture. It’s perfect for anyone looking to eat healthy without sacrificing taste.