Warm up your kitchen and your soul with a bowl of Golden Lentil Barley Soup! This hearty, vegan delight is not only packed with flavor but is also incredibly nourishing, making it the perfect dish for chilly evenings or a cozy family gathering. With its rich blend of lentils, barley, and vibrant vegetables, this soup promises to be a comforting hug in a bowl. Ready in just 45 minutes, you'll want to bookmark this recipe for those busy weeknights when you crave something wholesome yet easy to prepare. Dive into this culinary adventure and discover how simple ingredients can create a masterpiece that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Vegan
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup lentils
- 1/2 cup barley
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Rinse the lentils and barley thoroughly under cold running water to remove any debris or dust. Drain and set aside.
- Heat a large soup pot over medium heat. Add a small amount of olive oil and allow it to warm.
- Add diced onions, carrots, and celery to the pot. Sauté the vegetables for 4-5 minutes until they begin to soften and the onions become translucent.
- Mince the garlic cloves and add them to the vegetable mixture. Sauté for an additional 30 seconds until the garlic becomes fragrant.
- Pour the vegetable broth into the pot, then add the rinsed lentils and barley. Stir to combine all ingredients.
- Sprinkle dried thyme into the soup, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir well to distribute the seasonings.
- Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover the pot and let the soup simmer for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Check the lentils and barley for tenderness. The soup is ready when both grains are soft but still retain a slight bite.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. If the soup is too thick, add a little more vegetable broth to reach desired consistency.
- Remove from heat and let the soup rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together.
- Ladle into warm bowls and optionally garnish with fresh herbs or a drizzle of olive oil before serving.
Tips
- Rinse Thoroughly: Always rinse your lentils and barley under cold water to remove any dust or debris. This step ensures a cleaner and more flavorful soup.
- Sauté for Flavor: Don’t skip the sautéing step! Cooking the onions, carrots, and celery until they’re soft enhances their natural sweetness and adds depth to your soup.
- Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a thinner soup, feel free to add more vegetable broth as it simmers. This flexibility allows you to tailor the dish to your liking.
- Taste as You Go: Always taste your soup before serving! Adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, or even a splash of lemon juice for an extra zing.
- Garnish for Flair: Elevate your soup presentation by garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or a drizzle of olive oil. It not only looks beautiful but adds a fresh flavor.
- Make it Ahead: This soup keeps well in the fridge for a few days, making it a great option for meal prep. Just reheat and enjoy a quick, nutritious meal!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 220kcal
Carbohydrates: 40g
Protein: 12g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
