Herbed Mushroom Barley Soup

Name: Herbed Mushroom Barley Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup pearl barley; 8 cups vegetable broth; 2 cups mushrooms, sliced; 1 onion, diced; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Cozy Kitchen Recipes

A comforting and nutritious soup featuring earthy mushrooms and hearty barley, perfect for chilly days.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-29T19:22:27.881Z

This Herbed Mushroom Barley Soup is a family favorite, combining the rich flavors of mushrooms with the nutty texture of barley. It's not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it a perfect meal for any occasion.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Hearty and satisfying, perfect for cold weather
Loaded with umami from fresh mushrooms
Nutritious barley adds a unique texture and flavor

      

The Benefits of Barley

Barley is a whole grain that has been a staple in diets around the world for centuries. It is known for its high fiber content, which promotes healthy digestion and helps maintain stable blood sugar levels. Incorporating barley into your meals can aid in weight management by keeping you feeling fuller for longer.

In addition to being a great source of fiber, barley is rich in essential vitamins and minerals, including selenium, magnesium, and B vitamins. These nutrients contribute to overall health and wellness, making this soup not only delicious but also a nourishing choice for your body.

The Umami of Mushrooms

Mushrooms are often celebrated for their rich umami flavor, which adds depth and complexity to dishes. In this Herbed Mushroom Barley Soup, a medley of fresh mushrooms enhances the overall taste profile, making each spoonful a delightful experience. The earthy notes of mushrooms pair beautifully with the nutty barley, creating a satisfying blend.

Beyond flavor, mushrooms offer numerous health benefits. They are low in calories and fat while being packed with antioxidants and important nutrients, including vitamin D and potassium. This makes them a fantastic addition to any diet, especially during the colder months when we crave hearty meals.

Perfect for Meal Prep

This Herbed Mushroom Barley Soup is an excellent option for meal prepping. It stores well in the refrigerator for up to a week, allowing you to enjoy it on busy days without sacrificing nutrition or flavor. Simply reheat and enjoy a warm, comforting bowl of soup any time you need a quick meal.

Additionally, this soup freezes beautifully, making it an ideal choice for batch cooking. Portion it into individual containers before freezing, and you'll have nutritious meals ready to go whenever hunger strikes. Just thaw and heat, and you’ll have a cozy dish that’s perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

For the Soup

1 cup pearl barley
8 cups vegetable broth
2 cups mushrooms, sliced
1 onion, diced
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Gather all ingredients before starting to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Instructions

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables soften.

Add Mushrooms and Garlic

Add the sliced mushrooms and minced garlic to the pot. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until the mushrooms are tender.

Combine Barley and Broth

Stir in the pearl barley, vegetable broth, dried thyme, and dried oregano. Bring the mixture to a boil.

Simmer the Soup

Reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for about 30 minutes, or until the barley is tender. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve and Garnish

Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Enjoy your warming bowl of Herbed Mushroom Barley Soup!

Storage Tips

To maximize the freshness of your Herbed Mushroom Barley Soup, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you see any signs of spoilage, such as an off smell or discoloration, it's best to discard it.

If you're planning to freeze the soup, consider leaving out the fresh parsley garnish until serving. This will help maintain the vibrant color and flavor of the herbs when you reheat the soup. Label your containers with the date so you can keep track of how long they’ve been stored.

Variations and Additions

Feel free to customize your Herbed Mushroom Barley Soup by adding different vegetables to suit your taste or what you have on hand. Spinach, kale, or even diced potatoes can enhance the soup's nutritional value and add variety. You can also experiment with different types of mushrooms, such as shiitake or portobello, for unique flavors.

For a heartier soup, consider adding protein sources like cooked lentils, chickpeas, or shredded chicken. These additions will not only make the soup even more satisfying but also increase its nutritional value, making it a well-rounded meal option.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of barley?

Yes, but the cooking time may vary. Brown rice typically takes longer to cook.

→ Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free vegetable broth and ensure the barley is certified gluten-free.

→ Can I freeze this soup?

Absolutely! This soup freezes well. Just let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.

→ How long will leftovers last in the fridge?

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.