Mmmm...vegetable barley soup! You don't have to wait for the weather to turn cold to simmer up a pot of this tasty vegetarian classic. It's full of flavor, veggies, and love to fill your belly!
Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large stockpot set over medium high heat until shimmering. Add the carrots, celery, and onion and sauté for 5-10 minutes, or until onions start to soften.
Add the garlic and pearl barley. Cook, stirring constantly, to lightly toast the barley, for another 1-2 minutes.
Add the sliced mushrooms and continue sautéing. The mushrooms will start to release their liquid.
Add the broth or water, dried herbs, and bay leaf, and stir well. Bring to a boil, then lower heat to a simmer. Cook for 20-25 minutes.
Add the undrained diced tomatoes to the pot. Season well with salt and pepper. Raise heat again and continue cooking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until barley and vegetables are tender. Add the peas and simmer a few more minutes.
Just before serving, remove the bay leaf, stir in chopped leafy greens and allow them to wilt in the residual heat. Ladle into bowls and serve immediately.
Notes
Regular (i.e. not quick-cooking) barley can be used. Add an extra 20 minutes of initial simmering time.
To make gluten-free, swap the barley with quinoa.
Use store-bought vegetable stock or make your own.