1 cup pearl barley
4 cups vegetable broth
1 medium onion, diced
2 carrots, sliced
2 celery stalks, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
Prepare Your Ingredients: Begin by chopping all your veggies as per the ingredient list.
Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables soften.
Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Incorporate the Barley: Add the pearl barley to the pot, mixing well with the sautéed vegetables.
Pour in the Broth: Add the vegetable broth and bring it to a gentle boil. Once boiling, lower the heat and let it simmer.
Introduce the Rest of the Ingredients: Add the diced tomatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper. Allow the soup to simmer for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Adjust Seasonings: Taste your soup and adjust the seasonings as necessary.
Serve: Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.