Mushroom Barley Bean Soup
A hearty, savory mushroom and bean soup infused with tomato and barley, perfect for comforting meals and suitable for vegetarians seeking rich, wholesome flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place all ingredients in a large pot.
- Bring to a boil and then reduce heat to simmer.
- Cook for 1 hour, stirring occasionally, until beans are tender and flavors meld.
Tips & Substitutions
For added depth of flavor, consider sautéing the mushrooms with a bit of olive oil before adding them to the pot. You can substitute navy beans with black beans or kidney beans if desired. If you want a heartier soup, add chopped carrots or celery. Adjust the seasoning with Eddie'S Chicken Sauce Piquant for a spicy kick.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal. For a unique twist, try serving it alongside Wild Rice And Mushroom Stuffing for a delightful combination of textures and flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover mushroom barley bean soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup thickens too much, add a splash of chicken broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mushroom Barley Bean Soup contains roughly 244 calories, with 14g protein, 48g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin D (149% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (29% of the Daily Value), and protein (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 easily make this soup vegetarian by substituting chicken broth with vegetable broth. This will maintain the flavors while making it suitable for vegetarians. Additionally, you can enhance the umami taste by adding a splash of soy sauce or tamari.
How can I thicken the soup if desired?
If you prefer a thicker soup, you can mash some of the beans after cooking or add a slurry made from cornstarch and water. Another option is to let it simmer longer to reduce the liquid content. Just be sure to stir frequently to avoid sticking.
Can I freeze the mushroom barley bean soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well! Allow it to cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then warm on the stovetop, adding a bit of liquid if needed.
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).