Barley Veg Soup Recipe For A Healthy, Hearty Meal

When the weather turns chilly or you’re simply craving a warm, hearty meal, nothing beats a comforting bowl of barley vegetable soup. This wholesome soup is packed with nutritious ingredients, including tender pearl barley and a colorful array of fresh vegetables.

It’s a perfect blend of flavors and textures that delights the palate while nourishing your body. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch or a satisfying dinner, this barley veg soup recipe is easy to make and incredibly versatile.

Barley is a nutritious whole grain that adds a lovely chewiness and fiber to the soup, helping to keep you full and energized. The medley of vegetables provides antioxidants, vitamins, and a vibrant taste that makes every spoonful a delight.

Plus, this soup is a great way to get creative with whatever vegetables you have on hand, making it a flexible recipe for busy weeknights or meal prep. Ready to dive into a bowl of warmth and wellness?

Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Barley vegetable soup is more than just a tasty meal; it’s a nutritious powerhouse that supports your wellbeing. Here’s why this recipe will quickly become a favorite:

• Nutritious & Filling: Pearl barley is rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making the soup hearty and satisfying.
• Easy to Customize: Use your favorite seasonal vegetables or what’s available in your fridge.
• One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup with everything cooked in a single pot or Dutch oven.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This soup stores well and tastes even better the next day.
• Vegan & Gluten-Friendly Options: Naturally vegan, and can be made gluten-free by using certified gluten-free barley.

Ingredients

• 1 cup pearl barley, rinsed
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 medium zucchini, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup green beans, trimmed and chopped
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, with juice
• 6 cups vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
• Optional: A squeeze of lemon juice for brightness

Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Ladle (for serving)
• Soup bowls

Instructions

1. Prepare your ingredients: Rinse the pearl barley under cold water until the water runs clear. Dice the onion, carrots, celery, zucchini, and bell pepper. Mince the garlic and trim and chop the green beans.
2. Sauté the aromatics: Heat the olive oil in your large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for about 4 minutes until translucent. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add the vegetables: Toss in the carrots, celery, bell pepper, and green beans. Stir everything together and cook for 5 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften slightly.
4. Incorporate barley and seasonings: Add the rinsed pearl barley to the pot along with the dried thyme and oregano. Stir to combine and toast the barley lightly for 1-2 minutes.
5. Add liquids and tomatoes: Pour in the vegetable broth and the canned diced tomatoes with their juice. Stir well to mix all ingredients.
6. Simmer the soup: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer gently for about 40-45 minutes, or until the barley is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
7. Add zucchini and final seasoning: Stir in the diced zucchini and cook uncovered for an additional 10 minutes. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
8. Serve and garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Add a squeeze of lemon juice if desired for an extra layer of flavor.

Tips & Variations

“For an extra boost of flavor, try adding a bay leaf during simmering and remove it before serving.”

• Make it gluten-free: Use certified gluten-free pearl barley or substitute with quinoa or brown rice.
• Vegetable swaps: Feel free to swap green beans and zucchini with peas, kale, or spinach for different textures.
• Protein add-ons: Add cooked chickpeas or white beans for a protein-rich variation.
• Spice it up: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of smoked paprika for a warming kick.
• Make it creamy: Stir in a splash of coconut milk or cashew cream just before serving for a rich twist.

Nutrition Facts

*Sodium content varies depending on the broth used.

Serving Suggestions

This barley vegetable soup is wonderfully versatile and pairs well with many accompaniments. Serve it alongside a warm crusty bread or garlic toast for dipping.

A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the soup’s hearty flavors beautifully.

For a more filling meal, try serving it with a scoop of cooked quinoa or brown rice on the side, or top the soup with a dollop of dairy-free yogurt or sour cream. This soup also pairs nicely with lighter dishes like a fresh vegetable wrap or a baked sweet potato.

Looking for more delicious vegetable-based recipes? Check out these favorites:

• Peruvian Vegetable Recipes for Flavorful Healthy Meals
• Low Calorie Vegetable Soup Recipe for Healthy Eating
• Veg Recipes for Slow Cooker: Easy, Tasty Meal Ideas

Conclusion

Barley vegetable soup is a soul-warming dish that brings together wholesome ingredients and simple cooking techniques to create a nourishing meal. Its rich textures and vibrant flavors make it an ideal choice for both busy weeknights and leisurely weekend cooking.

The recipe’s adaptability allows you to tailor it to your preferences or what you have on hand, making it a reliable kitchen staple.

Beyond taste, this soup offers impressive nutritional benefits, thanks to the fiber-packed barley and the array of vitamins and antioxidants from fresh vegetables. It stores well, freezes beautifully, and can be enjoyed all year round.

Whether you’re new to cooking barley or a seasoned home chef, this barley veg soup recipe is sure to become a cherished favorite. Don’t forget to explore more vegetable-focused recipes on the blog for continued culinary inspiration!

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