Description
A wholesome and hearty Vegetable Barley Soup packed with a variety of fresh vegetables, pearl barley, and aromatic herbs. This nutritious vegan and vegetarian soup is perfect for a comforting meal that’s both healthy and flavorful, ideal for any season.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 cup green beans, chopped
- 2 cups chopped spinach or kale (optional)
Grains and Canned Goods
- 1 cup pearl barley, rinsed
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with juices
Liquids
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- Juice of 1/2 lemon (optional, for brightness)
Herbs and Spices
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Base: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until softened and translucent.
- Add Aromatics and Vegetables: Stir in minced garlic, sliced carrots, and celery. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and to allow the vegetables to soften.
- Combine Main Ingredients: Add diced zucchini, chopped green beans, and rinsed pearl barley to the pot. Pour in the canned diced tomatoes with their juices and the vegetable broth, stirring well to combine.
- Season the Soup: Stir in dried thyme, dried oregano, bay leaf, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the soup to a boil over high heat.
- Simmer: Reduce heat to low and cover the pot. Let the soup simmer gently for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the barley is tender and the soup is thickened.
- Add Greens: If using chopped spinach or kale, stir it into the soup during the last 5 minutes of cooking to allow it to wilt but retain its vibrant color and nutrients.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the bay leaf before serving. For added brightness, squeeze the juice of 1/2 lemon into the soup just before serving. Enjoy warm.
Notes
- Swap out vegetables based on seasonal availability or personal preference, such as adding bell peppers or mushrooms.
- For a heartier soup, add canned chickpeas or white beans to increase protein and texture.
- The soup will thicken as it sits; add extra vegetable broth or water when reheating to reach desired consistency.
- Adjust seasoning at the end to suit your taste.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ½ cups
- Calories: 190
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 7g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
