Jamie Oliver Pearl Barley Soup Recipe

Jamie Oliver Pearl Barley Soup

Jamie Oliver’s Pearl Barley Soup is a hearty and wholesome dish, perfect for warming up on chilly days. Packed with nutritious pearl barley, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs, this soup is both satisfying and healthy. Easy to prepare and full of flavor, it’s a great choice for a comforting family meal or a make-ahead lunch.

What is Jamie Oliver Pearl Barley Soup?

This soup features pearl barley simmered in a flavorful broth alongside a mix of vegetables and herbs. The pearl barley gives the soup a creamy, slightly chewy texture, while the fresh vegetables add color, nutrients, and depth of flavor.

Jamie Oliver Pearl Barley Soup

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Why You Should Try This Recipe

  • Nutrient-Rich: Pearl barley is high in fiber and vitamins.
  • Comforting and Filling: A perfect one-pot meal for any day.
  • Easy to Make: Requires simple ingredients and minimal effort.
  • Customizable: Add your favorite vegetables or proteins.
  • Great for Meal Prep: It tastes even better the next day.

Ingredients Needed to Make Jamie Oliver Pearl Barley Soup

For the Soup Base

  • Pearl Barley (150g): Provides a nutty flavor and hearty texture.
  • Vegetable Stock (1.5 liters): Forms the flavorful base of the soup.
  • Carrots (2, diced): Adds sweetness and color.
  • Celery (2 stalks, diced): Adds crunch and earthiness.
  • Leek (1, thinly sliced): For a mild, oniony flavor.
  • Garlic (2 cloves, minced): For aromatic depth.
  • Onion (1, finely chopped): Adds sweetness and richness.
  • Bay Leaf (1): Enhances the aroma.
  • Fresh Thyme (2-3 sprigs): Adds a herby touch.
  • Olive Oil (2 tbsp): For sautéing.
  • Salt and Black Pepper (to taste)

Optional Add-Ins

  • Chopped Spinach or Kale (2 handfuls): For added greens.
  • Cooked Chicken or Beans (1 cup): To make it heartier.

Equipment Needed

  • Large pot or Dutch oven
  • Wooden spoon
  • Ladle

Instructions to Make Jamie Oliver Pearl Barley Soup

Step 1: Prepare the vegetables

Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, celery, and leek. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened but not browned.

Step 2: Toast the barley

Add the pearl barley to the pot and stir for 2-3 minutes to coat it with the oil and toast it lightly.

Step 3: Build the broth

Pour in the vegetable stock and add the bay leaf and thyme sprigs. Stir well, then bring the soup to a gentle simmer.

Step 4: Simmer the soup

Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the pearl barley is tender but still has a slight chew. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Adjust seasoning and serve

Season the soup with salt and black pepper to taste. If using spinach or kale, stir it in during the last 5 minutes of cooking. Remove the bay leaf and thyme sprigs before serving. Ladle into bowls and enjoy hot.

Jamie Oliver Pearl Barley Soup

What Goes Well With Jamie Oliver Pearl Barley Soup

  • Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping.
  • Side Salad: A light green salad complements the soup.
  • Grated Parmesan: Adds a touch of richness.
  • Chili Oil: For a spicy kick.
  • Roasted Vegetables: Serve on the side for extra flavor.

Expert Tips for Making the Best Pearl Barley Soup

  • Rinse the Barley: Rinse the pearl barley under cold water before adding it to the soup to remove excess starch.
  • Use Fresh Herbs: Thyme and bay leaves enhance the flavor of the broth.
  • Stir Occasionally: Prevents the barley from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
  • Make It Creamier: Stir in a splash of cream or milk at the end for added richness.
  • Batch Cook: This soup freezes well, so make extra for future meals.

Easy Variations of Jamie Oliver Pearl Barley Soup

  • Vegetarian Version: Add beans or lentils instead of meat for protein.
  • Meaty Twist: Include shredded cooked chicken, ham, or sausage.
  • Extra Veggies: Add zucchini, tomatoes, or parsnips for more variety.
  • Spicy Flavor: Add red chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
  • Italian-Inspired: Stir in canned tomatoes and top with Parmesan cheese.

Best Practices to Store Jamie Oliver Pearl Barley Soup

  • Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Freeze: Freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
  • Reheat: Warm gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or stock if the soup thickens too much.

Nutrition Value (per serving):

  • Calories: 220
  • Protein: 6g
  • Carbohydrates: 38g
  • Fat: 5g
  • Fiber: 8g

FAQs

Can I use hulled barley instead of pearl barley in soup?

Yes, hulled barley can be used, but it takes longer to cook and has a chewier texture. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, simmering for about 50-60 minutes until tender.

How can I make pearl barley soup gluten-free?

Replace pearl barley with a gluten-free grain like quinoa, rice, or buckwheat for a gluten-free version of the soup.

Can I prepare pearl barley soup in advance?

Yes, pearl barley soup can be made ahead of time. It often tastes better the next day as the flavors develop. Reheat gently and add extra stock if the soup thickens too much.

What is the best way to store leftover pearl barley soup?

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of stock if needed.

Final Words

Jamie Oliver’s Pearl Barley Soup is a nourishing and comforting dish that’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor.

Customize it with your favorite ingredients and enjoy a wholesome bowl of goodness!

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Jamie Oliver Pearl Barley Soup

Jamie Oliver Pearl Barley Soup Recipe

  • Author: Ekani Ella
  • Prep Time: 15
  • Cook Time: 40
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 4
  • Category: Soup
  • Method: Simmering
  • Cuisine: European

Description

This soup features pearl barley simmered in a flavorful broth alongside a mix of vegetables and herbs. The pearl barley gives the soup a creamy, slightly chewy texture, while the fresh vegetables add color, nutrients, and depth of flavor.


Ingredients

For the Soup Base

  • Pearl Barley (150g): Provides a nutty flavor and hearty texture.
  • Vegetable Stock (1.5 liters): Forms the flavorful base of the soup.
  • Carrots (2, diced): Adds sweetness and color.
  • Celery (2 stalks, diced): Adds crunch and earthiness.
  • Leek (1, thinly sliced): For a mild, oniony flavor.
  • Garlic (2 cloves, minced): For aromatic depth.
  • Onion (1, finely chopped): Adds sweetness and richness.
  • Bay Leaf (1): Enhances the aroma.
  • Fresh Thyme (2-3 sprigs): Adds an herby touch.
  • Olive Oil (2 tbsp): For sautéing.
  • Salt and Black Pepper (to taste)

Optional Add-Ins

  • Chopped Spinach or Kale (2 handfuls): For added greens.
  • Cooked Chicken or Beans (1 cup): To make it heartier.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the vegetables

Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, celery, and leek. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened but not browned.

Step 2: Toast the barley

Add the pearl barley to the pot and stir for 2-3 minutes to coat it with the oil and toast it lightly.

Step 3: Build the broth

Pour in the vegetable stock and add the bay leaf and thyme sprigs. Stir well, then bring the soup to a gentle simmer.

Step 4: Simmer the soup

Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the pearl barley is tender but still has a slight chew. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Adjust seasoning and serve

Season the soup with salt and black pepper to taste. If using spinach or kale, stir it in during the last 5 minutes of cooking. Remove the bay leaf and thyme sprigs before serving. Ladle into bowls and enjoy hot.


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