Savory Mushroom and Barley Winter Stew
Savory Mushroom and Barley Winter Stew is a heartwarming dish that warms both body and soul on chilly evenings. With tender cremini mushrooms, chewy pearl barley, and vibrant vegetables simmered in a flavorful broth, this stew is perfect for cozy nights in or gatherings with friends. Each spoonful delivers a comforting blend of hearty flavors that will leave everyone craving more. Easy to prepare and endlessly adaptable, this stew is not only delicious but also visually stunning—making it a delightful addition to any dinner table.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Main
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 lb cremini mushrooms, sliced
- 1 cup pearl barley
- 6 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tsp fresh thyme (or 1 tsp dried)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onions and garlic; sauté until fragrant (3-4 minutes).
- Stir in diced carrots and celery; cook until softened (about 5 minutes).
- Add sliced mushrooms; cook until golden brown (approximately 7 minutes).
- Mix in pearl barley and pour in vegetable broth; bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to a simmer, add thyme, salt, and pepper; cover and cook until barley is tender (30-40 minutes).
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 47g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: For added nutrition, toss in leafy greens like spinach or kale just before serving. To store leftovers, let the stew cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers—refrigerate for up to four days or freeze for three months.