2bleu's Vegetable Barley Soup

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This is our vegan version of recipe #390745. Barley is a wonderfully versatile cereal grain with a rich nutlike flavor and an appealing chewy, pasta-like consistency. When the weather's cold, a big pot of soup simmering on the stove warms the heart as well as the hearth. In addition to its robust flavor, it's a very good source of fiber. If you can't find barley in your grocery store, you can purchase some of excellent quality pearl barley at www.nutsonline.com

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Steps

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Preparing barley: like all grains , before cooking barley , rinse it thoroughly under running water and then remove any dirt or debris that you may find.

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In a large dutch oven over medium heat , add all ingredients except salt & black pepper.

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Bring to a boil , reduce heat and simmer for 1-1 1 / 2 hours , stirring occasionally until barley and carrots are tender and fully cooked.

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Season to taste with salt & black pepper and serve.

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Pearl barley takes a minimum of 1 hour to cook , whereas hulled barley takes 1.

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5 hours or more.

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Ingredients

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vegetable broth, garlic cloves, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, pearl barley, dried parsley, basil, crushed red pepper flakes, bay leaf, carrots, celery, onion, fresh mushrooms, salt and black pepper