Description
Vegetable Barley Soup is a hearty, nutritious, and vegetarian-friendly soup recipe perfect for chilly days or when you crave a comforting, healthy meal. Packed with fresh vegetables and wholesome barley, this easy-to-make soup is rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals—making it an ideal addition to any healthy diet. Suitable for vegans and vegetarians, this soup is a wholesome, flavorful, and satisfying option for lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 zucchini, chopped
- 1 cup pearl barley, rinsed
- 8 cups vegetable broth
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions and minced garlic, sautéing until transparent and fragrant.
- Add diced carrots, celery, and bell pepper, and sauté for about 5 minutes until vegetables start to soften. Stir in chopped zucchini and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
- Pour in rinsed pearl barley, vegetable broth, and canned diced tomatoes. Stir well, then season with dried thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low.
- Cover and let it simmer for 45-50 minutes, or until the barley is tender and flavors meld. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Taste and adjust seasonings if necessary. For extra greens, stir in chopped kale or spinach during the last 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley, serve hot with crusty bread or a light salad.
Notes
- Add chopped kale or spinach for extra greens.
- Stir in a splash of lemon juice to brighten flavors.
- For thicker soup, cook uncovered for the last 10 minutes to reduce liquid.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 220 Kcal
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 7g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 0mg