Warm your soul and tantalize your taste buds with a bowl of our irresistible French Lentil Soup with Barley and Rainbow Chard! This hearty, nutritious dish is not only a feast for the eyes with its vibrant colors but also a comforting hug in a bowl, perfect for any season. Packed with protein-rich lentils, wholesome barley, and the lush greens of rainbow chard, this recipe is a delightful blend of flavors that will leave you craving more. Ready to impress your family or guests with a dish that’s as easy to make as it is delicious? Dive into our simple yet satisfying recipe that promises to elevate your dining experience!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: French
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup French green lentils
- 1/2 cup pearl barley
- 1 bunch rainbow chard, chopped
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Rinse the French green lentils and pearl barley thoroughly under cold running water to remove any debris or dust.
- Heat olive oil in a large heavy-bottomed soup pot over medium heat. Add diced onions, carrots, and celery, and sauté until vegetables become soft and onions turn translucent, approximately 5-7 minutes.
- Add minced garlic to the vegetable mixture and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent burning and release the garlic's aromatic flavors.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and add the rinsed lentils and pearl barley. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for about 30-35 minutes, or until lentils and barley are tender but not mushy.
- Add chopped rainbow chard to the soup, stirring to incorporate. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until chard is wilted and tender.
- Season the soup with dried thyme, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Remove from heat and let the soup rest for 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
- Ladle the hot soup into bowls and serve immediately. Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil.
Tips
- Rinse Thoroughly: Always rinse your French green lentils and pearl barley under cold water to ensure they are clean and free from any debris. This step is crucial for achieving the best flavor and texture in your soup.
- Sauté for Flavor: Don’t skip the sautéing step! Cooking the onions, carrots, and celery until soft enhances the soup's flavor profile, creating a rich base that makes every spoonful delightful.
- Monitor Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the lentils and barley as they simmer. You want them tender but not mushy, so check them a few minutes before the recommended cooking time.
- Add Chard Last: To maintain the vibrant color and nutrients of the rainbow chard, add it towards the end of the cooking process. This ensures it wilts perfectly without losing its fresh taste.
- Season to Taste: Don’t hesitate to taste and adjust the seasoning as you go. Freshly ground black pepper and a pinch of salt can make a world of difference, so trust your palate!
- Garnish for Presentation: For an extra touch of elegance, consider garnishing your soup with fresh herbs or a drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil before serving. It adds a burst of flavor and makes your dish look even more appetizing!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 55g
Protein: 18g
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
