Hearty Barley Soup with Turkey and Carrots

This hearty barley soup features a nourishing mix of turkey, barley, and vegetables that makes for a satisfying meal. Infused with rich flavors, the dish is straightforward to prepare, yet substantial enough to leave you comforted and full. Perfect for a chilly day, the combination of pearl barley and tender turkey offers a nutrient-packed bowl. Vegetables like carrots, leeks, celery, and tomatoes enhance the savory broth with their natural sweetness and freshness. The addition of spices, including bay leaf and white pepper, deepen the complexity of flavors. This soup is perfect for those who enjoy a rustic dish with a nutritional boost. It's a versatile recipe that accommodates different dietary needs and preferences. The soup pairs wonderfully with fresh or toasted French bread. Its simplicity and warmth make it a treasured recipe for family meals and gatherings.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

200g turkey meat
75g pearl barley
4 carrots
1 liter chicken or vegetable broth
1 leek
2 tomatoes
2 celery stalks
1 tablespoon oil
1 bay leaf

Spices and Seasonings:

1/2 bunch chives
Salt
White pepper

Preparation Time

Total time: 50 minutes (including prep and cook time)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Carrots: Peel and slice carrots into 1/2 cm thick rounds.
Clean the Leeks: Slice the leek lengthwise, wash thoroughly, and then cut it into thin rings, including the green parts.
Chop the Celery: Wash celery stalks, slice them thinly, and finely chop any leafy parts.
Rinse the Barley: Place barley in a sieve and rinse with cold water, allowing it to drain well.
Sauté Vegetables: In a large pot, heat the oil and sauté the carrots, leeks, and celery.
Add Barley: Stir the barley into the vegetables and briefly sauté everything together.
Simmer: Add the bay leaf and pour in the broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 15 minutes.
Peel and Dice Tomatoes: In the meantime, pour boiling water over the tomatoes, let them sit briefly, rinse with cold water, peel off the skins, and chop into small pieces.
Cube the Turkey: Cut the turkey into cubes.
Combine Ingredients: Add the tomato pieces and turkey cubes to the soup.
Season: Season the soup with salt and white pepper to taste, then continue to simmer gently for another 15 minutes.
Prepare the Chives: Rinse the chives, shake off excess water, and chop finely.
Final Touches: Taste the barley soup for seasoning, then serve with a generous sprinkle of chopped chives.
Serving Suggestion: Serve the soup hot with fresh or lightly toasted French bread for a complete meal.

Tips

Substitutions: Use chicken breast if you prefer a leaner protein.
Vegan Option: Swap the turkey for mushrooms and use vegetable broth.
Extra Flavor: Add a splash of lemon juice for brightness.

Nutritions

Calories: Approximately 280 per serving
Protein: 20g
Fats: 8g
Carbohydrates: 32g

Variations

Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of chili flakes for a bit of heat.
Herbs: Incorporate fresh thyme or rosemary for additional aromatic notes.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a mixed green salad for a balanced meal.
Garnish with grated Parmesan for an extra savory dimension.

Best Places

Le Pain Quotidien - Charming spot for hearty soups and fresh bread. Location: 801 Laurel Street, San Carlos, USA.
Café de Flore - Parisian café offering classic French meals. Location: 172 Boulevard Saint-Germain, Paris, France.
The Soup Spoon - A comforting selection of global soups. Location: 313 Somerset, Singapore, Singapore.
Soup Kitchen - Known for its homestyle soups and cozy vibe. Location: 20, Arashiyama, Kyoto, Japan.
Bors GasztroBar - Budapest represents with traditional Hungarian soup specialties. Location: Kazinczy utca 52/b, Budapest, Hungary.
The Stockpot - British classic soups served with a smile. Location: 18 Old Compton Street, London, UK.
The American Grilled Cheese Kitchen - Offers a unique twist with gourmet soups. Location: 1 South Park St., San Francisco, USA.
Dean & Deluca - Premium deli offering upscale soup selections. Location: 560 Broadway, New York, USA.
Albertina Passage - High-end bar with acclaimed soups. Location: Opernring 17, Vienna, Austria.
In de Keuken - A hidden gem with a selection of unique, flavor-rich soups. Location: Hartenstraat 17, Amsterdam, Netherlands.