Welcome to a cozy culinary retreat with our Bountiful Barley & Mushroom Broth. This rustic soup marries the earthy flavors of mushrooms with the hearty, nutty essence of barley, creating a comforting and nutritious meal. Ideal for chilly nights or as a wholesome lunch, it's a simple yet satisfying dish that brings warmth and joy to any table.
Preparation and Cooking Times
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Servings and Serving Size
- Servings: 6
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 250 ml)
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Protein: 5g
- Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 8g
- Sodium: 300mg
Ingredients
- Pearl barley: 1 cup (200g)
- Button mushrooms, sliced: 300g (10.5 oz)
- Onion, finely chopped: 1 large (200g)
- Carrots, diced: 2 medium (150g)
- Celery stalks, diced: 2 (100g)
- Garlic cloves, minced: 2 (10g)
- Vegetable broth: 6 cups (1440ml)
- Fresh thyme: 1 teaspoon (1g)
- Olive oil: 2 tablespoons (30ml)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Detailed Method of Preparation
- Barley Prep: Rinse barley under cold water and drain.
- Vegetable Sauté: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onions, carrots, celery, and garlic. Cook until softened.
- Mushroom Addition: Stir in mushrooms and cook for 5 minutes.
- Combine Ingredients: Add barley, broth, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Simmer: Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 1 hour, or until barley is tender.
- Final Seasoning: Adjust seasoning if necessary.
Tips for Culinary Success
- Rinse Barley: Ensure to rinse the barley thoroughly to remove any dust.
- Slow Cook: Allow the soup to simmer slowly for the best flavor infusion.
- Fresh Herbs: Use fresh thyme for a more robust flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use another type of mushroom?
Yes, feel free to experiment with different varieties.
Is it gluten-free?
No, barley contains gluten.
Can I make it in advance?
Yes, it tastes even better the next day.
With each spoonful of this Bountiful Barley & Mushroom Broth, let the earthy and wholesome flavors comfort and nourish you. It's more than a soup; it's a hug in a bowl, offering a taste of home and heartiness. Bon Appétit!