Adan Kendric Jamie Oliver’s Pearl Barley Soup is a hearty, wholesome dish perfect for chilly days or when you need a comforting meal. Packed with nutritious pearl barley, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs, this soup is filling, flavorful, and easy to make.
Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try
- Healthy and nourishing: Pearl barley is high in fiber and nutrients.
- Versatile: Works as a starter or a main course.
- Easy to make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps.
- Budget-friendly: Uses affordable pantry staples and vegetables.
- Great for meal prep: Freezes and reheats well for busy days.
What Is Jamie Oliver Pearl Barley Soup?
Jamie Oliver’s Pearl Barley Soup is a hearty, vegetable-packed soup that uses pearl barley as the star ingredient. Slow-cooked in a flavorful broth creates a rich and satisfying meal.
Jamie Oliver Pearl Barley Soup Ingredients
- 200g (1 cup) pearl barley
- 1.2 liters (5 cups) vegetable or chicken stock
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 zucchini, diced (optional)
- 200g (7 oz) canned diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- A handful of fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Optional Add-Ins:
- 100g (3.5 oz) shredded cooked chicken or smoked sausage
- 1 cup spinach or kale for added greens
Other Jamie Oliver Recipes
Step-by-Step Instructions to Prepare Jamie Oliver Pearl Barley Soup
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Rinse the pearl barley under cold water. Chop all vegetables and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened and fragrant.
Step 3: Add the Barley and Stock
- Stir in the pearl barley, stock, canned tomatoes, thyme, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
Step 4: Simmer the Soup
- Cover and cook for 40-50 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the barley is tender and the soup has thickened.
Step 5: Season and Garnish
- Remove the bay leaf. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Stir in fresh parsley before serving.
Step 6: Serve
- Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot with crusty bread or a side salad.
What to Serve with Jamie Oliver Pearl Barley Soup
- Crusty bread: Perfect for dipping.
- Side salad: A fresh green salad complements the soup.
- Cheese platter: Add a selection of cheeses for an indulgent pairing.
- Roasted vegetables: Serve alongside for a hearty meal.
Expert Tips for Mastering Jamie Oliver Pearl Barley Soup
- Use quality stock: A good vegetable or chicken stock enhances the flavor.
- Rinse the barley: This removes excess starch and prevents clumping.
- Add greens last: If using spinach or kale, stir them in during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
- Adjust consistency: Add more stock if the soup thickens too much.
- Make it vegan: Use vegetable stock and skip meat add-ins.
Variations of Jamie Oliver Pearl Barley Soup
- Meaty version: Add cooked chicken, sausage, or bacon.
- Vegetarian twist: Use more vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or bell peppers.
- Spicy kick: Add chili flakes or smoked paprika for heat.
- Herbaceous flavor: Use fresh rosemary or basil for extra aroma.
- Creamy soup: Blend half the soup for a creamy texture.
How to Store Leftovers Jamie Oliver Pearl Barley Soup?
- Refrigerate properly: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze for later: Freeze portions for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
How to Reheat Jamie Oliver Pearl Barley Soup?
- On the stove: Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of stock if needed.
- In the microwave: Reheat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between.
Nutrition Value (Per Serving)
- Calories: 180
- Protein: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fat: 5g
- Fiber: 7g
FAQs
Can I use pearl barley instead of rice in soup?
Yes, pearl barley works perfectly in soup. It adds a nutty flavor, chewy texture, and makes the soup more filling and nutritious.
How do I make pearl barley soup thicker?
To thicken pearl barley soup, simmer it longer to reduce the liquid or mash some of the cooked vegetables into the broth. Adding a tablespoon of flour or cornstarch slurry can also help.
Can pearl barley soup be made ahead of time?
Yes, pearl barley soup can be made ahead of time. The flavors deepen as it sits. Reheat gently and add a splash of stock or water if it thickens too much.
What are good substitutes for pearl barley in soup?
Farro, quinoa, or rice are excellent substitutes for pearl barley, offering similar textures and versatility. Adjust the cooking time based on the grain used.
Final Words
Jamie Oliver’s Pearl Barley Soup is a comforting, nutritious dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any time of the year. Whether you enjoy it as a main meal or a side, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Try it today and savor the hearty goodness of pearl barley!
Print
Jamie Oliver Pearl Barley Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40-50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 minute
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Soup
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Italian-British
Description
Jamie Oliver’s Pearl Barley Soup is a hearty, vegetable-packed soup that uses pearl barley as the star ingredient. Slow-cooked in a flavorful broth creates a rich and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
- 200g (1 cup) pearl barley
- 1.2 liters (5 cups) vegetable or chicken stock
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 zucchini, diced (optional)
- 200g (7 oz) canned diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- A handful of fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Optional Add-Ins:
- 100g (3.5 oz) shredded cooked chicken or smoked sausage
- 1 cup spinach or kale for added greens
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Rinse the pearl barley under cold water. Chop all vegetables and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened and fragrant.
Step 3: Add the Barley and Stock
- Stir in the pearl barley, stock, canned tomatoes, thyme, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
Step 4: Simmer the Soup
- Cover and cook for 40-50 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the barley is tender and the soup has thickened.
Step 5: Season and Garnish
- Remove the bay leaf. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Stir in fresh parsley before serving.
Step 6: Serve
- Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot with crusty bread or a side salad.
