Mexican Bean Barley Soup
Wonderfully warming, this soup is always on the menu for the retreats we host on our woodland farm. Everyone enjoys spooning up its yummy vegetable broth and hearty mix of beans and barley. When I really want to bring smiles, I serve a basketful of my homemade onion-herb bread with it.
Wonderfully warming, this soup is always on the menu for the retreats we host on our woodland farm. Everyone enjoys spooning up its yummy vegetable broth and hearty mix of beans and barley. When I really want to bring smiles, I serve a basketful of my homemade onion-herb bread with it.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
- 3 garlic cloves minced
- 2 tablespoons canola oil
- 2 medium onions chopped
- 2 teaspoons lemon juice
- 1 can (15 ounces) pinto beans rinsed and drained
- 1-1/2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 medium turnip peeled and diced
- 1 medium carrot diced
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped jalapeno pepper
- 3 cans (14-1/2 ounces each) vegetable broth
- 2 cups cooked barley
- Carbohydrate 4.12977023810007 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Fat 4.05704857142442 g
- Fiber 0.768647629274876 g
- Protein 0.50607238093552 g
- Saturated Fat 0.311636428571329 g
- Serving Size 1 1 servings. (45g)
- Sodium 6.50197619029854 mg
- Sugar 3.3611226088252 g
- Trans Fat 0.0654664285695979 g
- Calories 53 calories
Step-by-step
- In a large saucepan, saute onions and garlic in oil until tender.
- Add the turnip, carrot and jalapeno; cook and stir until tender.
- Add cumin and coriander; cook and stir for 2 minutes.
- Add broth. Bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat; cover and simmer for 20 minutes.
- Add the barley, beans and lemon juice.
- Simmer, uncovered, 10-15 minutes longer or until soup thickens slightly.
A Farmwife's Favorite: Hearty Mexican Bean Barley Soup
The air is crisp, the leaves are turning, and a chill hangs in the air. There's nothing quite like the comforting warmth of a hearty soup on a day like this, and my Mexican Bean Barley Soup is just the ticket. This recipe isn't just a simple meal; it's a story woven into every spoonful. It's the culmination of years spent tending our woodland farm, hosting retreats, and sharing meals with friends and family who have become like family.
Our farm is a bustling hub of activity, especially during our retreats. We welcome people from all walks of life, offering a respite from the everyday hustle and bustle. They come seeking peace, connection with nature, and of course, good food. And this soup? It’s consistently a crowd-pleaser. The rich, savory broth, the satisfying chew of the barley, the heartiness of the beans – it's a symphony of flavors that leaves everyone feeling nourished and content. It's become a tradition, a symbol of warmth and welcome that we share with everyone who visits.
Beyond the retreats, this soup is a staple in our own kitchen. It's perfect for busy weeknights, when time is precious but a nourishing meal is essential. It's incredibly versatile too. Sometimes I add a splash of chili for a spicier kick, other times I'll throw in some leftover roasted vegetables for an extra layer of flavor. The beauty of it is its adaptability; you can easily tailor it to your preferences and what you have on hand.
The aroma alone is enough to fill your home with warmth and anticipation. Imagine the fragrant blend of cumin and coriander mingling with the sweetness of the carrots and turnip, all simmering gently in a rich vegetable broth. The addition of pinto beans adds a creamy texture and a boost of protein, making it a satisfying and wholesome meal. And if you’re feeling particularly ambitious, try serving it with a side of my homemade onion-herb bread – the perfect complement to this comforting soup.
This isn't just a recipe; it's a memory, a feeling, a taste of home. It's the embodiment of simple ingredients transformed into something extraordinary, a testament to the power of sharing food and creating lasting memories. So gather your ingredients, invite your loved ones, and let the comforting aroma of this Mexican Bean Barley Soup fill your home with warmth and love. It's more than just a meal; it's a celebration of life, shared around a table with people you cherish.
The beauty of this soup, beyond its deliciousness, lies in its simplicity. It’s a recipe that is easily adaptable to whatever vegetables you might have on hand. A little extra this, a little less that, it always comes out perfectly. And for me, that's the ultimate comfort food – something familiar, comforting, and utterly delicious, no matter the season.
It's a reminder that even the simplest ingredients can create something extraordinary when combined with love and care. So, the next time you're craving a warm, hearty, and flavourful meal, reach for this recipe. It's more than just a soup; it's an experience.
