Ingredients and Weight:
- Beef broth: 2 liters (easily available in cans or boxes in supermarkets)
- Mushrooms: 200 grams (fresh, available in supermarkets)
- Barley: 100 grams (dried, also easily available)
- Carrots: 2 medium-sized (for added flavor and nutrition)
- Onion: 1 large
- Garlic: 4-5 cloves
- Herbs and spices: Salt, pepper, bay leaves, thyme
Preparation Time:
- Preparation: 20 minutes
- Cooking: 4 hours (low heat)
Difficulty Level: Level 3 (Moderate difficulty)
Preparation Method Steps:
- In a large pot, bring the beef broth to a boil.
- Add the barley and reduce the heat to low. Allow to simmer for 2 hours.
- Meanwhile, clean and slice the mushrooms, carrots, and onions.
- Add the sliced vegetables to the pot along with the garlic, bay leaves, and thyme.
- Simmer for another hour or until the barley is fully cooked and the soup has a rich flavor.
- Season with salt and pepper according to taste.
Nutritional Information:
Per serving (assuming 8 servings):
Calories: Approximately 250-300 calories (depending on the type of beef broth used)
Protein: 20-25 grams
Fat: 10-15 grams (mostly from beef broth)
Carbohydrates: 20-25 grams (from barley and vegetables)
Fiber: 5-7 grams (from vegetables and barley)
Other nutrients: Minerals like iron, zinc, and B-vitamins from beef and vegetables
Dish Characteristics:
- Rich and hearty flavor, perfect for colder weather.
- Beef broth provides a rich, savory taste that Americans often enjoy.
- Barley adds a unique texture and provides a satisfying mouthfeel.
- Mushrooms add a luxurious touch and enhance the overall flavor profile.
User Comments:
- "This soup is so comforting and satisfying."
- "The combination of beef, mushrooms, and barley is brilliant."
- "A great dish for a cold winter's day."
- "The flavors blend so well together, definitely a keeper."
- "Easy to make and tastes even better the next day."
Special Precautions and Tips:
- Use low heat for a longer period of time to ensure the soup develops a rich flavor.
- Use good quality beef broth for best results.
- If using fresh herbs, add them closer to the end of the cooking time to retain their flavor and color.
