Barley Vegetable Soup Recipe Slow Cooker Made Easy

There’s something truly heartwarming about a bowl of barley vegetable soup, especially when it’s slow-cooked to perfection. This recipe combines wholesome barley with a medley of fresh vegetables and fragrant herbs, simmered slowly to create a rich, comforting soup that’s perfect for chilly days or whenever you crave a nourishing meal.

Using a slow cooker makes the process effortless, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while you go about your day. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is simple, healthy, and utterly satisfying.

Barley is a fantastic ancient grain packed with fiber and essential nutrients, making this soup not only delicious but also great for digestion and sustained energy. The vegetables add vibrant color and a bounty of vitamins, while the slow cooker does all the heavy lifting for you.

Dive into this easy, wholesome barley vegetable soup recipe and discover why it’s become a go-to comfort food for many.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This barley vegetable soup cooked in a slow cooker is the epitome of convenience and nutrition. It’s:

• Super easy: Just chop, throw in the slow cooker, and let it work its magic.
• Nutritious: Packed with fiber-rich barley and colorful vegetables for a health boost.
• Flavorful: Slow cooking enhances the depth of flavor, making every spoonful comforting and satisfying.
• Versatile: Perfect as a main dish or a hearty side, and easy to customize with your favorite veggies or spices.
• Meal prep friendly: Makes great leftovers and freezes well for busy weeks.

Ingredients

• 1 cup pearl barley, rinsed
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 celery stalks, sliced
• 1 medium potato, diced
• 1 cup green beans, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
• 6 cups vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Equipment

• Slow cooker (at least 4-quart capacity)
• Cutting board and knife for chopping vegetables
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula for stirring
• Ladle for serving

Instructions

1. Prepare the vegetables: Dice the onion, mince the garlic, peel and slice carrots, slice celery, dice the potato, and cut the green beans.
2. Sauté aromatics: In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until translucent. Add garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Combine ingredients in slow cooker: Transfer the sautéed onion and garlic into the slow cooker. Add the carrots, celery, potato, green beans, diced tomatoes, and rinsed barley.
4. Add broth and seasonings: Pour in the vegetable broth, then add the dried thyme, oregano, bay leaf, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine everything evenly.
5. Cook low and slow: Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The barley should be tender and the vegetables soft.
6. Final seasoning and garnish: Remove the bay leaf. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
7. Serve warm: Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy with your favorite bread or salad.

Tips & Variations

“Using pearl barley shortens the cooking time compared to hulled barley, but both work well in this soup.”

• Add more veggies: Feel free to throw in zucchini, bell peppers, or kale for added nutrition and color.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or chilli powder for a mild kick.
• Make it creamy: Stir in some coconut milk or cashew cream in the last 30 minutes for a luscious texture.
• Use homemade broth: If you have homemade vegetable broth on hand, it will elevate the flavors even more.
• Batch cooking: Double the recipe and freeze portions for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This barley vegetable soup is hearty enough to be a meal on its own, but here are some ideas to elevate your dining experience:

• Serve with a side of crusty whole grain bread or warm garlic bread for dipping.
• Pair with a fresh green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette for a light contrast.
• Top with a dollop of vegan sour cream or plain yogurt if you prefer a creamy touch.
• Complement with a warm Banana Pancake Recipe Men Eat Vegan Too Made Easy for a cozy brunch twist.

Conclusion

Slow cooker barley vegetable soup is a perfect example of comfort food that’s both wholesome and easy to prepare. This recipe offers a delightful balance of hearty grains and fresh vegetables, simmered to perfection for a nourishing meal that’s ideal for any season.

Its simplicity, combined with rich flavors and health benefits, makes it a staple for busy weeknights or meal prepping. Whether you’re a vegetarian, vegan, or simply looking to incorporate more plant-based dishes into your diet, this soup ticks all the boxes.

Don’t forget to explore more plant-based recipes to expand your culinary horizons. For more nourishing meals, check out our Awesome Vegetarian Slow Cooker Recipes for Easy Meals or dive into wholesome grains with Ancient Grains Vegetarian Recipes for Healthy Delicious Meals.

For a flavorful spice kick, try our Chilli Powder Recipe Vegan: Easy Homemade Spice Blend. Happy cooking and enjoy your delicious barley vegetable soup!

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