Are you ready to warm your soul with a bowl of hearty goodness? This Vegan Vegetable Barley Soup is not just a meal; it's a celebration of vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients that will leave you craving more. Packed with nutritious vegetables and the nutty texture of barley, this soup is perfect for cozy evenings or a healthy lunch option. With just a handful of ingredients and a little time, you can create a comforting dish that nourishes both body and spirit. Dive into the recipe below and discover how easy it is to whip up this delicious vegan delight!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: Vegan
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup barley
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Rinse the barley thoroughly under cold water to remove any debris and set aside.
- Heat a large soup pot over medium heat. Add a small amount of olive oil or vegetable broth for sautéing.
- Add chopped onions and sauté for 3-4 minutes until they become translucent and slightly softened.
- Incorporate minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, stirring to prevent burning.
- Add diced carrots and celery to the pot, cooking for 5 minutes to begin softening the vegetables.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and add the rinsed barley, bringing the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 25-30 minutes, allowing the barley to become tender.
- Add diced zucchini, canned tomatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper to the pot.
- Continue simmering for an additional 10-15 minutes until all vegetables are tender and flavors have melded.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or herbs to enhance flavor.
- Remove from heat and let the soup rest for 5 minutes before serving hot.
Tips
- Rinse the Barley: Make sure to rinse the barley thoroughly before cooking to remove any debris and ensure a clean flavor in your soup.
- Sauté for Flavor: Take your time sautéing the onions and garlic. This step is crucial for building a rich base of flavor that enhances the entire dish.
- Adjust the Consistency: If you prefer a thicker soup, reduce the amount of broth or add more barley. For a lighter soup, feel free to increase the broth.
- Experiment with Veggies: Don’t hesitate to swap in your favorite vegetables or whatever you have on hand. Spinach, kale, or bell peppers can add a delightful twist!
- Season to Taste: Always taste your soup before serving. Adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or herbs to suit your palate.
- Let it Rest: Allowing the soup to sit for a few minutes after cooking helps the flavors meld together beautifully.
- Store Leftovers Wisely: This soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Just remember to add a splash of broth when reheating, as the barley may absorb some liquid.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 50g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 3g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
