Barley Stew Recipe Vegetarian: Hearty & Delicious Meal

There’s nothing quite like a warm, hearty bowl of barley stew to comfort you on a chilly day. This vegetarian barley stew recipe is a delicious and nourishing way to enjoy wholesome ingredients in one satisfying meal.

Packed with tender barley, a medley of fresh vegetables, and rich herbs and spices, it’s perfect for those looking to enjoy a meatless dish that doesn’t compromise on flavor or texture. Whether you’re a seasoned vegetarian or simply want to add more plant-based meals to your diet, this barley stew will quickly become a favorite.

Barley is an ancient grain known for its chewy texture and nutty flavor, which adds depth to this stew. Plus, it offers a wonderful source of fiber and essential nutrients.

This recipe is easy to prepare, budget-friendly, and can be made in large batches to enjoy throughout the week. You’ll love how the flavors meld together to create a comforting, wholesome stew that’s perfect for lunch or dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Vegetarian and wholesome: This stew is packed with plant-based ingredients that provide protein, fiber, and vitamins, making it a balanced and nourishing meal.

Hearty and filling: The barley gives the stew a satisfying chewiness that pairs beautifully with the soft vegetables, making it a perfect comfort food.

Easy to customize: You can swap in your favorite veggies or add beans for extra protein. It’s versatile and forgiving for home cooks of all skill levels.

Make-ahead friendly: This stew tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for meal prep or leftovers.

Ingredients

• 1 cup pearl barley, rinsed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 medium potato, peeled and diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, with juice
• 6 cups vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup fresh spinach or kale, roughly chopped
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Equipment

• Large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board and sharp knife
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Ladle for serving
• Colander (for rinsing barley)

Instructions

1. Rinse the barley: Place the pearl barley in a colander and rinse under cold running water until the water runs clear. Set aside.
2. Sauté the aromatics: Heat the olive oil in your large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 4 minutes until translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add the vegetables: Stir in the diced carrots, celery, potato, red bell pepper, and mushrooms. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften.
4. Add barley and herbs: Stir in the rinsed barley, dried thyme, oregano, and bay leaf. Let the barley toast slightly for a minute or two with the vegetables to enhance its nutty flavor.
5. Pour in liquids: Add the diced tomatoes with their juice and the vegetable broth. Stir everything well to combine.
6. Simmer the stew: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and simmer gently for about 40-50 minutes, or until the barley is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
7. Season and add greens: Remove the bay leaf. Stir in the chopped spinach (or kale) and cook for an additional 5 minutes until wilted. Season the stew with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve and garnish: Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Enjoy your warm, comforting barley stew!

Tips & Variations

For extra protein, add a can of drained and rinsed chickpeas or white beans during the last 10 minutes of cooking.

If you prefer a thicker stew, mash a small portion of the cooked barley and vegetables before serving.

Feel free to swap the vegetables with whatever you have on hand – zucchini, green beans, or sweet potatoes all work wonderfully.

For a smoky twist, add a teaspoon of smoked paprika or a splash of liquid smoke.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This barley stew is wonderful served with a slice of crusty bread. For a delightful pairing, try it alongside Green Chile Cheese Bread Recipe to add a spicy, cheesy kick to your meal.

If you want to complement the stew with a light side, a fresh green salad with lemon vinaigrette works beautifully. For a comforting dessert afterward, consider trying the luscious Grandma’S Old Fashioned Bread Pudding With Vanilla Sauce Recipe.

And for a cozy brunch or snack to enjoy during the week, the Hamburger Bun Sourdough Recipe pairs nicely with the stew’s rustic flavors.

Conclusion

This vegetarian barley stew is a true testament to how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly delicious and satisfying. Its hearty texture, rich flavors, and wholesome ingredients make it a perfect meal for any day of the week.

Whether you are cooking for yourself, your family, or friends, this stew offers warmth and nourishment in every spoonful.

What’s great about this recipe is its adaptability—feel free to experiment with different vegetables or add beans to suit your taste and nutritional needs. Plus, it’s budget-friendly and easy to prepare ahead, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or meal prepping.

Give it a try, and you might just find your new favorite vegetarian comfort food!

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