When the chilly days roll in, nothing warms the soul quite like a hearty bowl of soup. Our Barley Mushroom Soup is a fantastic vegetable-based recipe that combines the earthy flavors of fresh mushrooms with the nutty texture of barley.
This soup is not only comforting but also packed with nutrients, making it a perfect meal for vegetarians and health-conscious eaters alike. Whether you’re looking for a wholesome lunch, a light dinner, or a nourishing starter, this soup fits the bill perfectly.
Using simple, wholesome ingredients, this recipe is easy to prepare yet delivers a rich depth of flavor that will impress your family and friends. Plus, it’s vegan-friendly and can be customized with your favorite vegetables or herbs.
If you love hearty, nutritious meals that don’t compromise on taste, this barley mushroom soup recipe will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This barley mushroom soup stands out because of its perfect balance between texture and flavor. The chewy barley adds a satisfying bite, while the mushrooms bring a meaty, umami-rich taste that elevates the soup beyond your average vegetable broth.
It’s also incredibly versatile and customizable—feel free to add your favorite seasonal vegetables or spices.
Additionally, this soup is packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making it a nourishing choice for any meal. It’s suitable for vegans and vegetarians, and its comforting warmth makes it ideal for cozy evenings.
Plus, it’s easy to make in one pot, saving you time on cleanup without sacrificing flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 cup pearl barley, rinsed
- 8 oz fresh mushrooms (button, cremini, or your choice), sliced
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Equipment
- Large soup pot or Dutch oven
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Ladle
- Soup bowls for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the vegetables: Rinse and slice the mushrooms, dice the carrots and celery, finely chop the onion, and mince the garlic. Set aside.
- Sauté aromatics: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in your large soup pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until translucent.
- Add garlic and mushrooms: Stir in the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms. Cook for another 5-7 minutes until the mushrooms release their moisture and begin to brown.
- Add carrots and celery: Toss in the diced carrots and celery, stirring for 2-3 minutes to combine and slightly soften the vegetables.
- Add barley and herbs: Pour in the rinsed pearl barley along with dried thyme, rosemary, and the bay leaf. Stir everything together for a minute to toast the barley slightly.
- Pour in broth and simmer: Add the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer gently for about 40-50 minutes, or until the barley is tender.
- Season and finish: Remove the bay leaf. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. If the soup is too thick, add a little more broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
- Serve: Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Enjoy warm!
Tips & Variations
“For a creamier texture, blend a portion of the soup and stir it back in. You can also add a splash of coconut milk or your favorite plant-based cream for richness.”
Feel free to swap out mushrooms for wild varieties like shiitake or portobello for different flavors. Adding diced potatoes or sweet potatoes can make the soup heartier.
For extra protein, toss in some cooked lentils or white beans.
If you enjoy a bit of spice, sprinkle in a dash of chili powder or smoked paprika. For a fresh twist, add a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving.
Don’t forget to explore other vegetable-rich recipes like A to Z Vegetarian Recipes for Every Meal and Occasion to keep your meals exciting!
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
---|---|
Calories | 210 kcal |
Protein | 7 g |
Carbohydrates | 40 g |
Dietary Fiber | 7 g |
Fat | 4 g |
Saturated Fat | 0.5 g |
Sodium | 650 mg |
Vitamin D | 2 mcg |
Iron | 2 mg |
Serving Suggestions
This soup pairs beautifully with a crusty whole-grain bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. A side of roasted vegetables or a light avocado toast can also complement the earthy flavors perfectly.
If you’re looking for more wholesome and comforting soup ideas, consider trying our Vegan Fall Soup Recipes To Warm Your Cozy Evenings. For grain-based meals, check out Ancient Grains Vegetarian Recipes for Healthy Delicious Meals for more inspiration.
Conclusion
The Barley Mushroom Soup is more than just a meal; it’s a nourishing embrace in a bowl. Perfect for chilly days or whenever you need a comforting, healthy dish, this soup brings together simple ingredients to create a satisfying and delicious experience.
The wholesome barley combined with savory mushrooms and fresh vegetables makes it a nutrient-dense option that supports a balanced lifestyle.
Easy to prepare and customizable, this soup offers endless possibilities to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs. Whether you’re a beginner cook or a seasoned chef, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Don’t forget to explore other delicious vegetarian and vegan recipes like Best Vegetarian Recipes No Dairy for Delicious Meals to keep your culinary journey exciting and flavorful!
📖 Recipe Card: Barley Mushroom Vegetable Soup
Description: A hearty and nutritious soup combining barley, mushrooms, and fresh vegetables. Perfect for a wholesome meal rich in fiber and flavor.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT40M
Total Time: PT55M
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup pearl barley
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups mushrooms, sliced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
Instructions
- Rinse barley under cold water.
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add onion and garlic; sauté until translucent.
- Add mushrooms, carrots, and celery; cook for 5 minutes.
- Stir in barley, thyme, and parsley.
- Pour in vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 35 minutes until barley is tender.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Stir in fresh spinach and cook for 2 more minutes.
- Serve hot.
Nutrition: Calories: 180 kcal | Protein: 6 g | Fat: 4 g | Carbs: 30 g
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