Barley Soup - Ham
A hearty, comforting barley and ham soup packed with vegetables and rich flavors, perfect for cozy family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil the barley in 3 to 4 cups of water over medium-low heat for 1 hour.
- Add the ham, ham bone, remaining vegetables, and tomato soup to the barley.
- Add more water as necessary to cover all ingredients.
- Continue cooking over medium-low heat until the vegetables are tender and the flavors meld.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using leftover ham from a previous meal, like Delicious Ham Loaf, which can add depth to your soup. If you need a substitute for barley, you can use farro or quinoa, but adjust the cooking time accordingly. Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can enhance the taste, so feel free to experiment.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the barley soup warm, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a simple side salad for a complete meal. For a heartier option, consider serving it alongside Easy Pork Chops And Gravy. This dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or meal prep for the week.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the soup in individual portions, which can last up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of water if needed to restore its consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Barley Soup - Ham contains roughly 423 calories, with 19g protein, 71g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (131% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (116% of the Daily Value), and potassium (89% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 792mg per serving (34% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes! You can substitute the ham and ham bone with smoked mushrooms or liquid smoke for a similar flavor profile. Use vegetable broth instead of water to cook the barley and enhance the overall taste.
How can I thicken the soup if it's too watery?
If your soup is too thin, consider mashing some of the potatoes against the side of the pot or stirring in a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water). This will add thickness and creaminess to the soup.
What other vegetables can I add to this recipe?
Feel free to get creative with the vegetables! Peas, green beans, or bell peppers work well. You can also add spinach or kale towards the end of cooking for extra nutrients. Just ensure they are cut into small pieces for even cooking.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).