Hearty Vegetable Barley Soup (Printable Version)

Wholesome vegetable and barley blend simmered with herbs and greens for a nourishing bowl.

# What You'll Need:

→ Oils and Fats

01 - 2 tablespoons olive oil

→ Vegetables

02 - 1 medium onion, finely chopped
03 - 3 cloves garlic, minced
04 - 2 medium carrots, diced
05 - 2 stalks celery, diced
06 - 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
07 - 2 cups kale or fresh spinach, roughly chopped
08 - 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

→ Grains and Legumes

09 - 1 cup pearl barley, rinsed
10 - 1 cup canned chickpeas, drained and rinsed

→ Canned Goods

11 - 14 oz canned diced tomatoes with juices

→ Liquids

12 - 6 cups vegetable broth
13 - 1 tablespoon lemon juice

→ Herbs and Spices

14 - 1 teaspoon dried thyme
15 - 1 teaspoon dried oregano
16 - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
17 - 2 bay leaves
18 - Salt and black pepper to taste

# Step-by-Step Guide:

01 - Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery; sauté for 5 to 7 minutes until softened and aromatic.
02 - Add mushrooms and continue cooking for another 5 to 7 minutes until they release moisture and begin to brown.
03 - Stir in rinsed pearl barley, diced tomatoes with juices, dried thyme, oregano, smoked paprika, bay leaves, salt, and pepper until evenly combined.
04 - Pour in vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 35 to 40 minutes until barley is tender.
05 - Stir in chickpeas and chopped kale or spinach. Simmer for an additional 5 to 7 minutes until greens are wilted and tender.
06 - Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Remove and discard bay leaves.
07 - Ladle soup into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Serve hot.

# Additional Notes:

01 - For enhanced flavor, allow the soup to rest for 10 minutes before serving to let the ingredients meld.