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Broccoli, Barley, and Cannellini Bean Soup Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4 from 71 reviews
  • Author: admin
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Soup
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This hearty Broccoli, Barley, and Cannellini Bean Soup is a nutritious and comforting meal perfect for any season. Packed with fiber-rich barley, protein-packed cannellini beans, and vibrant broccoli, this soup offers a delicious blend of flavors and textures. The aromatic sautéed onions and garlic combined with thyme add depth, making it a satisfying and wholesome dish that’s easy to prepare.


Ingredients

Scale

Vegetables

  • 2 cups chopped broccoli
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Grains

  • 1 cup barley

Legumes

  • 1 can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed (about 15 ounces)

Liquids

  • 6 cups vegetable broth

Seasonings and Oils

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt to taste
  • Black pepper to taste


Instructions

  1. Prepare the aromatics: In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing them until the onions become translucent and fragrant, which takes about 5 minutes. This step builds the flavor base for the soup.
  2. Add barley and broth: Next, stir in 1 cup of barley followed by 6 cups of vegetable broth. Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a boil, ensuring the barley is fully immersed and can cook evenly.
  3. Simmer the barley: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer gently for 30 minutes, or until the barley is tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and to check the texture of the barley.
  4. Add broccoli and beans: Stir in 2 cups of chopped broccoli and the drained, rinsed cannellini beans. Continue to cook the soup for an additional 10 minutes, allowing the broccoli to soften while retaining a bit of its bite.
  5. Season and serve: Finally, mix in 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Give the soup a final stir, then remove from heat and serve warm for a comforting meal.

Notes

  • For a thicker soup, you can mash some of the beans before adding them.
  • Feel free to swap barley for another whole grain like farro or brown rice if desired.
  • Adding a squeeze of lemon juice before serving can brighten the flavors.
  • This soup keeps well and tastes great the next day, making it perfect for meal prep.