Are you looking for a delicious, budget-friendly, and healthy meal that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further than this Poor Man's Soup recipe! This classic dish, packed with nutritious vegetables and hearty grains, is a testament to how simple ingredients can create an incredibly flavorful and satisfying experience. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting weekend lunch, this recipe is a staple in many households for good reason. Let's dive in and create some delicious, homemade goodness!
Ingredients:
This recipe is easily adaptable to what you have on hand, making it a fantastic choice for using up leftover vegetables.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup uncooked barley (pearl or regular)
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for a richer flavor)
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup chopped green beans (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup chopped potatoes (Yukon Gold or russet)
- Optional: 1 cup chopped kale or spinach (added in the last 10 minutes)
Instructions:
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Sauté the vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Add the grains and broth: Stir in the barley, vegetable broth, crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.
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Simmer the soup: Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 40-45 minutes, or until the barley is tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
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Add the remaining vegetables: Add the green beans and potatoes to the soup during the last 20 minutes of cooking. If using leafy greens like kale or spinach, add them during the final 10 minutes.
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Serve and enjoy: Once the barley is cooked through and the vegetables are tender, taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot and enjoy this healthy and delicious homemade soup!
Cooking Tips for the Best Poor Man's Soup:
- Don't overcook the barley: Overcooked barley can become mushy. Follow the cooking time guidelines closely.
- Use fresh herbs if possible: Fresh oregano and basil will add a more vibrant flavor to your soup.
- Add a little heat: For a spicier soup, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
- Make it your own: Feel free to experiment with other vegetables, such as zucchini, corn, or peas. Adding lentils or beans can also increase the protein content.
Variations:
- Vegetarian/Vegan: This recipe is naturally vegetarian. To make it vegan, ensure your broth is vegetable-based.
- Hearty Poor Man's Soup: Add cooked sausage, ground beef, or shredded chicken for a heartier meal.
- Creamy Poor Man's Soup: Stir in a dollop of plain yogurt or sour cream before serving for a creamier texture.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: 8-10 grams
- Fiber: 8-10 grams
This delicious Poor Man's Soup is a perfect example of how simple, healthy ingredients can come together to create a truly satisfying and flavorful meal. It's a quick dinner idea that's perfect for busy weeknights, and its versatility allows for countless adaptations to suit your taste preferences. Enjoy!