Krupnik(Barley Soup)
Krupnik is a hearty barley soup with tender vegetables and rich flavors, perfect for comforting meals and suitable for family dinners or cold days.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine dried herbs and spices of your choice such as basil, thyme, parsley, paprika, and pepper.
- Place in a paper or plastic bag with the hardened bread cubes and shake well.
- In a large pot, bring meat stock to a boil.
- Add diced carrots, chopped celery, diced potatoes, pearl barley, and mushrooms to the boiling stock.
- Reduce heat and simmer until vegetables and barley are tender, about 45-60 minutes.
- Stir in butter until melted and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, optionally topped with a dollop of sour cream.
Tips & Substitutions
For a heartier version, consider adding diced chicken or beef along with the vegetables. If you don't have pearl barley, you can substitute it with quinoa or rice, adjusting the cooking time accordingly. Fresh herbs like dill or parsley can enhance the flavor profile. Remember to soak barley for a few hours beforehand to reduce cooking time. This dish pairs beautifully with Sweet Paska for a festive meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Krupnik hot, garnished with a dollop of sour cream for added creaminess. This comforting soup is excellent on its own or served with crusty bread. For a complete meal, consider pairing it with a fresh salad or the Sweet And Sour Sauteed Cabbage for a delightful contrast of flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Krupnik in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or stock if it thickens too much. It can also be reheated in the microwave, but stir occasionally to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Krupnik(Barley Soup) contains roughly 2419 calories, with 39g protein, 343g carbohydrates, and 100g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (142% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (122% of the Daily Value), and vitamin D (111% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2009mg per serving (87% 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 Krupnik vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply replace the meat stock with vegetable stock and omit any meat. You can also add more vegetables or beans for protein, making it a satisfying vegetarian meal. This version will still be hearty and flavorful.
How do I know when the barley is cooked?
The barley should be tender but still slightly chewy, which usually takes about 45-60 minutes of simmering. If you prefer a softer texture, you can cook it a bit longer. Taste testing is the best way to ensure it's to your liking.
Can I freeze Krupnik?
Yes, you can freeze Krupnik for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.
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).