Nothing says comfort like a bowl of warm, homemade soup, and this Quaker Barley Soup Recipe is the ultimate in health, heartiness, and flavor. Whether you want a quick weeknight meal, a cozy winter warmer or something nutritious to power you through your day, this soup checks all those boxes.
Over 75% of all barley grown is for livestock feed. Even ancient civilizations such as the Egyptians and Romans used it for its remarkable health properties! The whole family will love this power-packed ingredient, and today we’re putting it to work in the form of a simple, hearty, but flavorful soup recipe.
What makes this dish special? Not only is it easy to make, but it’s loaded with wholesome ingredients, cheap, and great for meal prep. If you’re a fan of classic comfort foods, like chicken noodle soup, then you’ll love this equally comforting but lower-calorie alternative. Also, it’s a nice way to sneak in additional fiber and nutrients without losing flavor.
So, grab your ingredients, and let’s get cooking – because a delicious, homemade meal is just minutes away!
What is Quaker Barley Soup?
Why do they call this dish Quaker Barley Soup? Well, the name is derived from the well known brand of Quaker Oats, who for generation have been a house hold fame for quality grains. This soup doesn’t contain oats — so no need to worry! Instead, we go with hearty pearl barley, which lends a lovely chewy texture and nutty flavor.
Barley tends to get snubbed for rice or pasta, but I promise you’ll understand why it has a rightful place in your pantry once you make this recipe. As they say, “The way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” and this soup will for sure be a winner with anyone that tastes it. So, lets get into this nutritious (and delicious) bowl of goodness!
Why You’ll Love This Quaker Barley Soup Recipe
- Hearty and Nutritious: This soup is loaded with fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making it a wholesome choice for any meal.
- Budget-Friendly: Barley is an affordable ingredient that stretches your grocery budget while still providing a filling and satisfying meal.
- Customizable and Flavorful: You can easily add your favorite vegetables, protein, or spices to make this soup uniquely yours. Try adding mushrooms, chicken, or even a hint of smoked paprika for an extra depth of flavor.
If you’re a fan of vegetable soup or lentil stew, this Quaker Barley Soup will be your new go-to comfort dish. Give it a try and let the rich flavors surprise you!
How to Make Quaker Barley Soup Recipe
Quick Overview
Quaker Barley Soup Recipe: You Will Make Them As Easy As It Gets! With little prep and easy steps, you’ll have a filling and nutritious meal on the table in less than an hour. The broth, vegetables, and spices create the wonderful flavors, and the star ingredient — barley — absorbs all of it, resulting in a thick and satisfying soup.
Key Ingredients for Quaker Barley Soup:
- 1 cup pearl barley
- 6 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz.)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz.)
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Optional: Cooked shredded chicken, mushrooms, or fresh herbs
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5 minutes until the vegetables soften.
- Add the Barley and Spices: Stir in the pearl barley, dried thyme, salt, black pepper, and bay leaf. Let the flavors blend for a minute.
- Simmer the Soup: Pour in the broth and add the diced tomatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 40–45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Check for Doneness: Once the barley is tender and the soup has thickened, remove the bay leaf. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed.
- Serve and Enjoy: Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Serve hot!
What to Serve Quaker Barley Soup With
This soup pairs perfectly with a variety of sides:
- Crusty Bread or Garlic Toast – Perfect for dipping!
- Fresh Green Salad – A refreshing contrast to the hearty soup.
- Grilled Cheese Sandwich – Because who doesn’t love a good cheese pull?
Top Tips for Perfecting Quaker Barley Soup Recipe
- Use Low-Sodium Broth: This allows you to control the salt content.
- Make It Creamier: Stir in a bit of cream or coconut milk for a richer texture.
- Boost the Protein: Add cooked chicken, turkey, or beans to make it even more filling.
- Freeze for Later: This soup freezes beautifully, so make a big batch and save some for busy days.
Storing and Reheating Tips
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Let the soup cool completely, then freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to thin it out.
Health Benefits of Quaker Barley Soup
| Nutrient | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Fiber | Supports digestion and keeps you full longer |
| Protein | Helps with muscle repair and energy levels |
| Vitamins A & C | Boosts immune system and skin health |
| Iron | Essential for oxygen transport in the body |
Final Thoughts
Quaker Barley Soup Recipe This easy, delicious, and nutritious meal is perfect for any occasion. So bustle it up whether you’re meal-prepping for the week, feeding a hungry family, or simply craving a warm and hearty dish. Give it a try, and be sure to let us know how you did in the comments!
Quaker Barley Soup Recipe | Easy & Delicious
Course: SoupsCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy4-6
servings10
minutes45
minutes200
kcalA hearty and nutritious Quaker Barley Soup Recipe that’s easy to make, budget-friendly, and packed with wholesome ingredients. Perfect for a cozy meal anytime!
Ingredients
1 cup pearl barley
6 cups vegetable or chicken broth
1 onion, chopped
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz.)
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 bay leaf
1 tablespoon olive oil
Optional: Cooked shredded chicken, mushrooms, or fresh herbs
Directions
- Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5 minutes until the vegetables soften.
- Add the Barley and Spices: Stir in the pearl barley, dried thyme, salt, black pepper, and bay leaf. Let the flavors blend for a minute.
- Simmer the Soup: Pour in the broth and add the diced tomatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 40–45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Check for Doneness: Once the barley is tender and the soup has thickened, remove the bay leaf. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed.
- Serve and Enjoy: Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Serve hot!
Notes
- This soup thickens as it cools; add extra broth when reheating if needed.
Swap vegetable broth for chicken broth for added depth of flavor.
Great for meal prep—store leftovers for quick, healthy meals during the week.
FAQs : Quaker Barley Soup Recipe
Can I use a different type of barley?
Yes! Pearl barley is most commonly used, but you can also use hulled barley for a chewier texture. Just note that cooking time may vary.
Is this soup gluten-free?
No, barley contains gluten. If you’re looking for a gluten-free alternative, try using quinoa or rice instead of barley.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Just add all ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for
Share Your Twist
Do you have a unique take on making this Quaker Barley Soup Recipe? Perhaps you throw in a secret spice, additional veggies or a special topping that elevates it to the next level? We’d love to hear about it! Post your variations in the comments and encourage others to give their own tasty spin on this classic soup.
