barley mushroom soup recipe

The Best barley mushroom soup recipe

I am so excited to share with you one of my family’s favorite recipes – a hearty and comforting barley mushroom soup. This recipe has been a staple in our household for years, and for good reason. It’s a perfect blend of earthy mushrooms, savory barley, and rich vegetable broth that warms the soul.

As a busy mom, I appreciate how easy it is to prepare and customize to suit our family’s tastes. The story behind this recipe begins with my grandmother, who would often make it for our family gatherings during the holidays. She’d simmer the ingredients for hours to extract the deep flavors of the mushrooms and barley.

Over time, I’ve adapted her recipe to suit our modern tastes, adding in some fresh herbs and spices to give it a more contemporary twist. One of the things I love most about this recipe is how versatile it is. You can serve it as a comforting meal on its own or pair it with some crusty bread for a satisfying snack.

It’s also an excellent way to use up any leftover vegetables or mushrooms you might have lying around. As for the health benefits, this soup is a nutrient powerhouse. The barley provides sustained energy and fiber, while the mushrooms add an extra boost of antioxidants and immune-boosting compounds.

With this recipe, you can feel good about what you’re feeding your family. In terms of technique, I think what sets this recipe apart is the key to cooking the barley just right – not too soft or mushy. To achieve this perfect texture, be sure to soak your barley overnight before cooking it with the other ingredients.

This soup has become a staple in our household for many reasons – it’s easy to make, packed with nutrients, and delicious enough to please even the pickiest eaters. Trust me when I say your family will love it!

Creamy Barley Mushroom Soup

4.9 from 1910 votes

A hearty and comforting soup featuring earthy mushrooms and chewy barley, perfect for a cozy meal. This recipe is a must-try for any occasion.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Soup

2 tbsp butter
1 medium onion, diced
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
8 oz mushrooms, sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup pearl barley
6 cups vegetable broth
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp dried oregano
1 bay leaf
1 cup heavy cream
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp olive oil

👨‍🍳Directions

1In a large pot over medium heat, melt butter and olive oil.
2Add onion, carrots, and celery.
3Cook, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
4Add mushrooms and garlic, cook until mushrooms release their moisture and it evaporates, about 5 more minutes.
5Stir in barley, vegetable broth, thyme, oregano, and bay leaf.
6Bring to a boil.
7Reduce heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until barley is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
8Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
9Remove bay leaf.
10Stir in heavy cream, and season with salt and pepper.
11Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the soup is heated through.
12Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
13Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups and spoons

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 18g💛Saturated Fat: 12g❤️Cholesterol: 60mg🧂Sodium: 800mg🌾Total Carbs: 35g🥦Dietary Fiber: 6g🍬Sugars: 4g🥩Protein: 12g

📝Notes

Tips: For a creamier soup, blend a portion of it and mix it back into the pot. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives before serving.

Watch Video Of How Creamy Barley Mushroom Soup Works

This barley mushroom soup is always a crowd-pleaser at family gatherings – everyone loves its comforting warmth and rich flavors. When storing leftovers, be sure to label them clearly so you can easily reheat them later.

When reheating your soup, simply transfer it back into a pot over low heat and add some extra broth if needed. You can also serve it chilled as a refreshing summer treat by garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or dill.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Barley Mushroom Soup

Q: What type of mushrooms should I use?

I prefer using cremini or shiitake mushrooms for their robust flavor and meaty texture. Feel free to experiment with other varieties if you prefer!

Q: Can I use instant barley?

While instant barley can save time, I highly recommend using whole grain barley for its superior texture and flavor.

Q: How do I store leftover soup?

Transfer your cooled soup to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Q: Can I make this recipe in bulk?

Absolutely! This soup freezes beautifully, making it an excellent option for meal prep or batch cooking.

Q: Are there any substitutions I can make?

Feel free to swap out vegetables like carrots or celery for other root vegetables like beets or parsnips.

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