Description
A wholesome and filling vegetable barley soup packed with fresh vegetables and hearty barley. This nutritious and comforting soup is perfect as a healthy meal option, providing warmth and sustenance with every spoonful.
Ingredients
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 carrot, diced
- 1 celery stalk, chopped
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
Grains and Liquids
- ½ cup barley
- 4 cups vegetable broth
Oils and Seasonings
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: herbs (thyme, parsley)
Instructions
- Heat the oil: In a pot over medium heat, warm 1 tablespoon of olive oil to prepare for sautéing the aromatics.
- Sauté onion and garlic: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot, cooking until they become fragrant and translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add carrots and celery: Stir in the diced carrot and chopped celery, cooking for another 3-5 minutes until they begin to soften.
- Add barley, tomatoes, and broth: Pour in the ½ cup barley, 1 cup diced tomatoes, and the 4 cups vegetable broth, stirring to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Simmer the soup: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer, uncovered, for 30 to 40 minutes until the barley is tender and the flavors have melded together.
- Season and finish: Add salt and pepper to taste, along with optional fresh or dried herbs like thyme or parsley. Stir well and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve warm: Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy it hot for a fulfilling and nourishing meal.
Notes
- Add beans such as cannellini or kidney beans for extra protein and heartiness.
- The soup stores well and tastes even better the next day once the flavors have melded further.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: International
