Save Pin When the air turns crisp and you crave something deeply satisfying, nothing beats the rustic charm of a Mushroom and Barley Soup. This European classic brings together the forest-floor earthiness of sliced mushrooms and the delightful, chewy texture of pearl barley. It is a nourishing bowl designed to warm you from the inside out while providing a wholesome, gut-friendly meal that feels both light and filling.
Save Pin This soup relies on simple pantry staples and fresh vegetables to create a complex flavor profile. The combination of carrots, celery, and onions forms a sweet, savory base, while the thyme and oregano infuse the broth with herbal notes. It's a versatile dish that celebrates the humble mushroom, turning it into the star of your dinner table.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 400 g (about 14 oz) mushrooms, sliced (cremini or button recommended)
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried oregano
Grains & Liquids
- 120 g (2/3 cup) pearl barley, rinsed
- 1.5 liters (6 cups) vegetable broth
- 1 bay leaf
Seasoning & Garnish
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
Instructions
- Step 1
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and cook for 3 minutes until translucent.
- Step 2
- Stir in the garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until vegetables begin to soften.
- Step 3
- Add the mushrooms and cook for 6-8 minutes, until they release their moisture and begin to brown.
- Step 4
- Sprinkle in the thyme and oregano, stirring to coat the vegetables.
- Step 5
- Add the rinsed pearl barley, vegetable broth, and bay leaf. Stir to combine.
- Step 6
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 35-40 minutes, or until barley is tender and soup has thickened slightly.
- Step 7
- Remove bay leaf. Season to taste with salt, pepper, and lemon juice if using.
- Step 8
- Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For the best results, ensure you rinse the pearl barley thoroughly before adding it to the pot to remove any excess surface starch. When browning the mushrooms, resist the urge to stir them too frequently at first; letting them sit undisturbed for a minute or two helps them achieve a deeper golden color and more intense flavor.
Varianten und Anpassungen
You can easily customize this soup to make it even heartier by adding diced potatoes or chopped kale during the last 15 minutes of simmering. To boost the umami depth of the broth, consider stirring in a tablespoon of soy sauce along with the vegetable broth.
Serviervorschläge
Serve this comforting soup hot, garnished with a generous sprinkle of fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice for a bright finish. It pairs perfectly with a side of crusty bread or rustic sourdough to soak up every last drop of the savory broth.
Save Pin Whether you are looking for a simple weekday dinner or a cozy meal to share on a chilly afternoon, this Mushroom and Barley Soup is a timeless choice that delivers comfort in every spoonful.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use other types of mushrooms?
Absolutely. While cremini or button mushrooms work well, you can also use shiitake for extra umami, porcini for deeper earthiness, or a wild mushroom blend for more complex flavors.
- → Is pearl barley gluten-free?
No, pearl barley contains gluten. For a gluten-free version, substitute with quinoa, buckwheat, or rice, adjusting cooking times accordingly.
- → How long does this soup keep in the refrigerator?
This soup stores beautifully for 4-5 days in an airtight container. The barley continues to absorb liquid, so you may need to add more broth when reheating.
- → Can I freeze mushroom and barley soup?
Yes, freeze for up to 3 months. Note that the barley will soften more upon thawing, so consider slightly undercooking if planning to freeze.
- → What can I add to make it more filling?
Diced potatoes, chopped kale, or canned beans like cannellini or chickpeas add heartiness. A dollop of yogurt or crusty bread on the side also makes it more substantial.
- → Why add lemon juice at the end?
Lemon juice brightens the earthy flavors and cuts through the richness, creating a more balanced and vibrant taste. It's especially helpful if your soup feels too heavy.