Barley Vegetable Soup Hearty (Printable Version)

Tender barley meets vibrant vegetables in a generous simmered bowl, brimming with comfort and goodness.

# Ingredient List:

→ Grains

01 - 3/4 cup pearl barley, rinsed

→ Vegetables

02 - 1 medium onion, diced
03 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
04 - 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
05 - 2 celery stalks, diced
06 - 1 medium potato, peeled and diced
07 - 1 zucchini, diced
08 - 1 cup green beans, ends trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
09 - 1 cup diced tomatoes, canned or fresh
10 - 1 cup frozen peas

→ Broth & Seasonings

11 - 6 cups vegetable broth
12 - 1 bay leaf
13 - 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
14 - 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
15 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
16 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
17 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, optional for garnish

# How to Make It:

01 - Heat olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic and sauté until softened, about 3 minutes.
02 - Add carrots, celery, and potato to the pot. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
03 - Stir in pearl barley, green beans, zucchini, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth. Incorporate bay leaf, dried thyme, and dried oregano.
04 - Bring contents to a boil, then lower the heat to maintain a gentle simmer. Cover and cook for 40 minutes, stirring occasionally.
05 - Add frozen peas and continue simmering for 5 to 7 minutes, or until barley and vegetables are tender.
06 - Remove bay leaf. Season soup with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
07 - Ladle soup into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Uses up assorted vegetables in your fridge for less waste
  • Hearty enough to be a stand-alone meal
  • Works with pantry staples and freezer-friendly veggies
  • Dairy-free and vegetarian so everyone can enjoy
  • One pot and minimal fuss means easy clean up
02 -
  • High in dietary fiber supports digestion and fullness
  • Keeps well in the fridge for up to four days
  • Hearty grains and vegetables make it naturally satisfying
03 -
  • Always rinse barley thoroughly before cooking for best texture
  • Taste and adjust seasoning just before serving to brighten flavors
  • Let soup rest off heat for ten minutes to mingle flavors before ladling out