Barley Thickened Mushroom Soup
A hearty, comforting mushroom soup thickened with barley, featuring savory flavors from sautéed vegetables and Worcestershire sauce, perfect for cozy gatherings or family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute mushrooms, onion, and green pepper in butter.
- Blend in flour and cook until browned.
- Gradually add water and milk, stirring constantly.
- Add remaining ingredients: barley, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and parsley.
- Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Stir frequently, then reduce heat.
- Cover and simmer for 10 to 12 minutes or until barley is tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding garlic while sautéing the vegetables or incorporating some fresh herbs like thyme. If you want a creamier texture, substitute half of the milk with heavy cream. For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free flour blend instead of regular flour. Quick barley can be replaced with cooked quinoa or rice if preferred.
Serving Suggestions
This barley thickened mushroom soup makes a hearty main dish and pairs beautifully with a slice of crusty bread or a light salad. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a fresh garden salad or the Old Fashioned Honey Bread for a delightful contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If the soup thickens too much upon refrigeration, add a splash of water or milk to reach your desired consistency before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Barley Thickened Mushroom Soup contains roughly 429 calories, with 9g protein, 63g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin D (80% of the Daily Value) and iron (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 725mg per serving (32% 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 use dried mushrooms instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use dried mushrooms, but remember to rehydrate them in warm water for at least 30 minutes before using. This will enhance their flavor and texture in the soup.
What can I add to make this soup more filling?
To make the soup heartier, consider adding cooked chicken or white beans for protein. You could also increase the amount of barley or add vegetables like carrots or spinach for added nutrition.
How can I adjust the seasoning in this recipe?
Feel free to adjust the salt and Worcestershire sauce according to your taste. You can also experiment with other spices like black pepper or red pepper flakes for a bit of heat. Tasting as you go will help you find the perfect balance.
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).