Keywords: barley lentil soup, mushroom soup recipe, healthy soup ingredients, vegetable broth for soups, homemade soup making, thyme and rosemary in soup
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### Barley Lentil and Mushroom Soup Recipe
Looking for a hearty, nutritious, and comforting soup that's perfect for any season? Try this delicious Barley Lentil and Mushroom Soup recipe! Packed with fiber-rich barley, protein-packed lentils, and flavorful mushrooms, itβs not only tasty but also great for your health.
#### Ingredients
- 1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed
- 1 cup pearl barley
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups sliced mushrooms (button, cremini, or a mix)
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- Optional: 1 small carrot, diced
#### Instructions
##### Step 1: Preparing the Ingredients
Start by rinsing the lentils under cold water until the water runs clear. In a large bowl, soak the pearl barley for about 30 minutes to help it cook faster.
Chop the onion and mince the garlic. Slice the mushrooms into thin rounds if they are large. Dice any carrot you're using.
Add sliced mushrooms to the pot and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until they release their moisture and start to soften. Stir in the dried thyme.
Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Add the soaked pearl barley and lentils, along with any optional diced carrot if using. Reduce heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 30 minutes or until the barley is tender but still slightly chewy.
##### Step 4: Seasoning and Finishing
Remove from heat and let it cool slightly. Stir in chopped parsley and lemon juice. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
##### Step 5: Serving
Serve your Barley Lentil and Mushroom Soup hot, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or some crumbled feta cheese for an extra burst of flavor.
#### Tips for Success
- **Use quality ingredients**: Fresh vegetables and herbs will enhance the overall taste.
- **Soak barley**: This step helps in reducing cooking time while maintaining texture.
- **Simmer gently**: Allow the soup to simmer slowly to ensure flavors meld together nicely without breaking down the vegetables too much.
- **Store leftovers properly**: Store any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate within two days. You can also freeze portions for later use.
This recipe is not only perfect for a cozy night in but also easy to customize with additional veggies or spices according to your taste preferences. Enjoy!