Winter Wheat Soup
A second vegetarian wheat soup, this is well worth trying. The recipe calls for winter wheat berries, but it could just as easily be made with spelt. The cooking time difference is minimal. If cooked wheat berries or spelt are on hand, simply add 9 cups (2.25 liters) water to 2 3/4 cups (360 g) cooked berries and continue from there.
A second vegetarian wheat soup, this is well worth trying. The recipe calls for winter wheat berries, but it could just as easily be made with spelt. The cooking time difference is minimal. If cooked wheat berries or spelt are on hand, simply add 9 cups (2.25 liters) water to 2 3/4 cups (360 g) cooked berries and continue from there.
- freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons coarse salt
- 1 cup (210 g) wheat berries or spelt
- 1 large carrot, peeled, halved lengthwise, and cut across into thin slices
- 2 medium parsnips, peeled, cut in half lengthwise and then across into 1/4-inch (.5-cm) slices
- 1 medium turnip, peeled and cut into thin wedges
- 2 large leeks, white part only, split in half lengthwise, washed well, and cut across into thin slices
- 1 medium sweet potato, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch (1-cm) cubes
- 3 medium ribs celery, peeled and cut across into thin slices
- 1/2 cup cup (40 g) celery leaves, coarsely chopped
- 1/2 cup (10 g) cilantro leaves
- Carbohydrate 48 g(16%)
- Fat 1 g(2%)
- Fiber 9 g(38%)
- Protein 6 g(12%)
- Saturated Fat 0 g(1%)
- Sodium 471 mg(20%)
- Calories 210
Step-by-step
- In a medium stockpot, bring the wheat berries and 13 cups (3.25 liters) water to a boil [for added flavor, replace some or all of the water with Garlic Broth].
- Lower the heat and simmer, partially covered, for 50 minutes, or until the wheat berries are almost cooked through, but not mushy.
- Stir in the carrot, parsnips, turnip, and leeks. Return to a boil.
- Lower the heat and simmer, uncovered, for 10 minutes.
- Stir in the sweet potato and celery. Simmer for 10 more minutes.
- Stir in the celery leaves and salt. Simmer for 1 minute.
- Add the cilantro and simmer for 1 minute.
- Season with pepper.
My Cozy Winter Wheat Soup Adventure
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook a nourishing and delicious meal can sometimes feel like a Herculean task. Weeknights are a whirlwind of school pick-ups, homework battles, and the ever-present mountain of laundry. But even amidst the chaos, I crave comfort food that warms me from the inside out. That's where this Winter Wheat Soup comes in. It's a simple recipe, yet the results are surprisingly sophisticated and utterly satisfying.
I discovered this recipe while browsing through a cookbook I'd picked up at a used bookstore. The title, "Soup: A Way of Life," intrigued me, and I'm so glad I gave it a try. The beauty of this soup lies in its simplicity. There's no need for fancy ingredients or complicated techniques. Just hearty vegetables, wholesome wheat berries, and a touch of fresh herbs. It's the kind of recipe that encourages experimentation. I often swap out some of the vegetables based on what's fresh and in season at my local farmer's market. Sometimes I add a bit of diced potato for extra creaminess, or a handful of spinach for extra nutrients.
The process of making this soup is incredibly therapeutic. The aroma of simmering vegetables fills the kitchen, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. It's a moment of pause in the otherwise frantic rhythm of my day. I love the way the vegetables soften and meld together, creating a rich and flavorful broth. The wheat berries add a wonderful chewiness, and the fresh herbs provide a bright and herbaceous finish. I often make a large batch on a weekend, allowing me to have quick and healthy lunches throughout the week.
More than just a meal, this soup is a symbol of nourishment and self-care. In a world that often demands so much of us, finding time to cook a comforting and healthy meal is an act of self-love. It's a reminder that even amidst the busyness of life, we deserve to take a moment to nurture our bodies and souls. And this Winter Wheat Soup is the perfect vehicle for that.
Tips and Variations:
- Customize your vegetables: Feel free to experiment with different root vegetables like turnips, carrots, parsnips and sweet potatoes based on what you have on hand.
- Add protein: For a heartier soup, add cooked lentils or chickpeas.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Make it creamy: Blend a portion of the soup for a creamier texture.
- Garlic Broth: If you are using a garlic broth it should add a nice subtle flavor that complements the other ingredients.
This Winter Wheat Soup is a testament to the power of simple ingredients and mindful cooking. It's a recipe that nourishes not only the body, but also the soul. So, take a deep breath, find a moment of peace, and enjoy the warmth and comfort of this delightful soup.
I encourage you to try this recipe and make it your own. Let me know in the comments how you customized your soup. Happy cooking!
