This warm and cozy soup combines tender turkey, wholesome barley, and colorful veggies for a filling meal. It’s perfect for chilly days when you need something extra comforting!
I love how this soup is both hearty and healthy. Plus, it’s easy to throw together, making weeknight dinners a breeze. Just simmer, serve, and watch everyone enjoy it! 🥣
Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: This adds healthy fats and flavor. You can substitute with vegetable or canola oil if you prefer or are out of olive oil.
Onion: A must for building flavor! You can also use shallots or leeks for a milder taste.
Garlic: Fresh is best, but if you don’t have any, garlic powder can work (1/8 teaspoon per clove).
Carrots & Celery: These add sweetness and crunch. Change them to peas or green beans based on your preference or what’s in the fridge.
Pearl Barley: This gives the soup its heartiness. If you’re looking for a quicker cook time, try using quick-cooking barley or even rice. Just adjust the cooking time!
Turkey: Use any leftover turkey or rotisserie chicken. For a vegetarian version, swap turkey for chickpeas or cooked lentils.
Herbs: While thyme and parsley are classic, feel free to use fresh herbs like dill or rosemary for a different flavor profile.
How Do I Cook the Vegetables Perfectly?
The trick to getting your vegetables just right is in the sautéing. Start by cooking the onions until they’re soft and translucent; this brings out their sweetness. Then, add in the garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook them for a few more minutes, so they soften a bit but stay crunchy. This adds great texture and flavor to your soup!
- Always heat your oil first before adding the vegetables.
- Use medium heat; it helps in softening without burning.
- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
Hearty Barley Turkey Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 large carrots, sliced
- 2 stalks celery, sliced
- 1 cup pearl barley, rinsed
- 8 cups low-sodium turkey or chicken broth
- 2 cups cooked turkey meat, shredded or diced
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (or 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1 bay leaf
How Much Time Will You Need?
This hearty soup takes about 15 minutes to prep and around 40-50 minutes to cook, making it a great option for a cozy dinner. With a little simmering, you’ll have a delicious meal ready to share in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. When it’s hot, add the diced onion and cook for about 5 minutes until it becomes translucent and fragrant. This builds the base flavor of your soup!
2. Add More Veggies:
Next, toss in the minced garlic, sliced carrots, and celery. Sauté these for another 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the veggies start to soften. They should brighten up with color and smell wonderful.
3. Incorporate Barley:
Time to add the rinsed pearl barley! Stir it in for 1-2 minutes, mixing it with the oil and veggies so it gets well-coated. This will help the barley absorb all the lovely flavors as it cooks.
4. Add Broth and Spices:
Pour in the turkey or chicken broth, then sprinkle in the dried thyme, parsley, and your optional bay leaf. Bring this mixture to a nice boil — this is where the magic begins!
5. Simmer the Soup:
Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and cover the pot. Allow it to cook for about 30-40 minutes until both the barley and veggies are tender. Your kitchen will start to smell amazing!
6. Stir in the Turkey:
While your soup is simmering, take your cooked turkey meat and add it to the pot. Heat it through for another 5-10 minutes. This will make the soup even heartier and comforting.
7. Season It Up:
Give your soup a taste and season it with salt and black pepper to your liking. Don’t forget to remove the bay leaf if you added one!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Ladle the soup into bowls and serve warm! Enjoy this hearty dish with some crusty bread for dipping. Perfect for a chilly day or any time you need a warm hug in a bowl!
Can I Use Leftover Turkey?
Absolutely! Leftover turkey is perfect for this soup. Just shred or dice it and add it in during the last few minutes of cooking to warm it through.
What Can I Substitute for Barley?
If you don’t have pearl barley on hand, you can use quinoa, farro, or even rice. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as they may cook faster than barley.
Can I Freeze This Soup?
Yes, this soup freezes very well! Allow it to cool completely, then store it in airtight containers. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove when you’re ready to enjoy it again.
What Other Vegetables Can I Add?
You can definitely customize this soup with other vegetables! Consider adding peas, green beans, or even spinach towards the end of cooking for added nutrition and flavor. Just make sure to adjust cooking times based on the vegetables you choose!
