Introduction
This delightful soup features pearl barley, a nutritious grain that adds a chewy texture, along with the robust flavors of cavolo nero and vegetables. It’s a comforting and healthy dish that is easy to prepare, making it perfect for a cozy meal.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
150g (5½ oz) pearl barley
3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, plus extra for drizzling
1 onion, finely chopped
400g (14 oz) cavolo nero, roughly chopped
1 large potato, peeled and cubed
115g (4 oz) tomatoes, chopped
1 liter (1¾ pints/4 cups) vegetable broth
4 slices of country bread, toasted (optional)
Prep Time
Preparation for this dish takes approximately 15 minutes to chop and ready the ingredients.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
The soup requires about 1 hour and 40 minutes to cook. When combined with the prep time, the total time is approximately 1 hour and 55 minutes. This recipe yields about 4 servings, perfect for a family meal or leftovers for the week.
Enjoy this warm and hearty soup that brings together wholesome ingredients in every comforting bowl!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Rinse and Cook Pearl Barley
Rinse the 150g of pearl barley under cold water to remove any impurities. Place the barley in a saucepan, cover it with cold water, and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat, cover the pan, and let it simmer for 1 hour or until the barley is tender. After cooking, drain the barley and set it aside.
Step 2: Sauté Onion
In a large saucepan, heat 3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook for about 5 minutes until the onion has softened and turned translucent.
Step 3: Add Vegetables and Barley
To the saucepan, add the roughly chopped cavolo nero, the peeled and cubed potato, and the chopped tomatoes. Stir in the cooked pearl barley, then pour in 1 liter of vegetable broth. Season the mixture with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences.
Step 4: Simmer the Mixture
Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low. Cover the saucepan with a lid and let it simmer for 40 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the vegetables to become tender.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
After 40 minutes of simmering, remove the saucepan from the heat. Drizzle the soup with a little extra virgin olive oil for added flavor before serving. If desired, offer toasted slices of country bread on the side.
Notes
Serving Suggestions
This soup is delicious as a light meal on its own but can also be paired with toasted country bread for a heartier option.
Storage Information
Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove before serving.
Ingredient Substitutions
If cavolo nero is not available, you can substitute it with other leafy greens such as kale or Swiss chard. Additionally, feel free to adjust the types of vegetables according to seasonal availability and personal preference.
Cook techniques
Rinsing Pearl Barley
Rinsing pearl barley under cold water helps to remove any dust or impurities and can enhance its texture when cooked.
Simmering
Simmering pearl barley for about an hour allows it to absorb water and become tender. It’s essential to keep it covered during this process for even cooking.
Sautéing Onions
Sautéing finely chopped onion in olive oil until soft releases its natural sweetness and adds depth of flavor to the dish.
Stir-frying Vegetables
Adding chopped cavolo nero, cubed potato, and tomatoes after the onion ensures that all the vegetables are evenly cooked and infused with the flavors of the dish.
Combining Ingredients
Incorporating cooked pearl barley into the vegetable mixture before adding the broth helps to meld the flavors together and ensures a cohesive dish.
Simmering Soup
Simmering the mixture for 40 minutes allows the flavors to develop fully and ensures the vegetables are tender while preserving their nutrients.
Drizzling Olive Oil
Drizzling extra virgin olive oil over the finished soup adds a rich flavor and a glossy finish, enhancing the overall presentation.
Serving with Toasted Bread
Toasting country bread and serving it on the side provides a delightful texture contrast and can be used for dipping into the soup.
FAQ
Can I use other grains instead of pearl barley?
Yes, you may substitute pearl barley with other grains like farro, quinoa, or brown rice, but cooking times may vary.
Is cavolo nero necessary for this recipe?
While cavolo nero adds unique flavor and nutrients, you can substitute it with other leafy greens like kale or spinach.
Can I make this soup in advance?
Yes, this soup can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for a few days. The flavors often improve after a day.
Can this recipe be made vegan?
Yes, this recipe is already vegan as it uses vegetable broth and does not contain any animal products.
What can I do with leftovers?
Leftovers can be reheated on the stove or in the microwave. They can also be frozen for future meals.
Conclusion
This dish is a hearty and nutritious option that combines the wholesome flavors of pearl barley, cavolo nero, and vegetables, perfect for a comforting meal. The use of extra virgin olive oil adds richness, while the toasted country bread serves as a delightful accompaniment, elevating the overall dining experience.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Barley and Mushroom Risotto
Swap the vegetable broth for a rich mushroom broth, and add sautéed mushrooms for a creamy, earthy twist.
Vegetable Barley Salad
Let the cooked barley cool and mix it with diced bell peppers, cucumber, and a lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing salad.
Barley and Lentil Stew
Incorporate cooked lentils into the soup for added protein and texture, making it even more filling.
Stuffed Bell Peppers
Use the cooked barley mixture as a stuffing for halved bell peppers, topped with cheese and baked until golden.
Chickpea and Barley Soup
Add canned chickpeas for an extra boost of protein, complementing the existing flavors while enhancing the dish’s heartiness.
Herbed Barley Pilaf
Add herbs such as parsley and dill to the cooked barley for a fragrant side dish, perfect for pairing with grilled meats or fish.
