I Made the Most Delicious Oven-Baked Barley Soup Ever - Here's the Recipe!

When the weather turns chilly, there's nothing more comforting than a warm bowl of soup. Recently, I decided to experiment with an oven-baked barley soup recipe, and it has quickly become my go-to dish! This soup is not only hearty and nourishing, but it's also simple to make. So grab your apron and let’s jump into this flavorful recipe!

Why Barley?

Barley is an exceptional grain that comes packed with nutrients and fiber. It's rich in proteins—about 12 grams per cup—and vitamins such as B vitamins and selenium. This grain adds a delightful chewy texture to the soup and has a pleasant nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with other ingredients. A notable fact: barley can help improve heart health and may lower cholesterol levels, making this dish not only tasty but also beneficial for your well-being.

Gather Your Ingredients

To make this delicious oven-baked barley soup, gather these essential ingredients:

• 1 cup of pearl barley

• 4 cups of vegetable broth (or chicken broth)

• 1 large onion, chopped

• 2 carrots, diced

• 2 celery stalks, diced

• 3 cloves of garlic, minced

• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 2 cups of chopped greens (spinach, kale, or your choice)

  
  

This recipe is quite flexible. Feel free to substitute or add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for an extra burst of flavor!

Prepping Your Soup

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large oven-safe pot or Dutch oven, sauté the chopped onion, carrots, and celery over medium heat until they begin to soften. This should take about 5 minutes.

Colorful chopped vegetables ready for barley soup

Once your veggies are tender, add in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. Make sure to stir often to avoid burning the garlic.

Next, stir in the pearl barley, diced tomatoes (including their juices), broth, thyme, oregano, and season it with salt and pepper.

Baking to Perfection

Bring your mixture to a boil. After that, cover the pot with a lid and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for about 1 hour, stirring occasionally.

Bubbling barley soup cooking in the oven

During baking, the barley will absorb most of the broth, resulting in a thick and satisfying soup. Around 10 minutes before your soup is done, stir in your chopped greens for that fresh touch.

Time to Serve

After your oven-baked barley soup is finished, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Ladle it into bowls and consider pairing it with some crusty bread. This dish is excellent for meal prep and can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days. It actually gets even better the next day, as all the flavors meld together beautifully.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you try this oven-baked barley soup. Its combination of flavors and the ease of preparation make it perfect for any weeknight dinner. Whether you are enjoying a cozy night in or hosting friends, this soup is sure to impress everyone!

So, what do you think? Will you be adding this delicious recipe to your collection? Let me know in the comments below! Happy cooking!