Healthy Crockpot Barley Soup

Name: Healthy Crockpot Barley Soup
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup barley; 5 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup carrots, diced; 1 cup celery, diced; 1 cup bell pepper, diced; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil

I love how this Healthy Crockpot Barley Soup combines simplicity with superb flavors. Using a slow cooker for this recipe not only saves time but also allows all the ingredients to meld beautifully. The barley adds a wonderful texture, while the variety of vegetables brings freshness to each bite. I can prep everything in just minutes, set it, and let the crockpot do the work, which means more time for me to unwind. This soup is a warm hug in a bowl that nourishes both body and soul.

Created by

Abigail Foster

Last updated on 2026-01-12T02:52:13.554Z

When I first made this Healthy Crockpot Barley Soup, I was amazed at how easily it came together and how delicious it turned out. The combination of tender barley, mixed vegetables, and spices creates a hearty meal that feels both nourishing and satisfying. One particular tip I learned is to toast the barley slightly before adding it to the pot; it enhances the nutty flavor even more.

Every time I come home to the aroma of this bubbling soup, I feel instantly comforted. It’s the ultimate one-pot meal that keeps well, so I usually make a big batch. I enjoy it fresh, and the leftovers taste even better the next day, allowing the flavors to deepen beautifully.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Hearty and filling, yet low in calories
Rich in nutrients with an array of colorful vegetables
Effortless preparation, just set it and forget it

      

Mastering the Barley

Barley is not only a key ingredient for texture but also contributes to the soup's heartiness. Its chewy consistency is what makes this soup satisfying while keeping it lighter than heavier grains or pasta. When cooking barley, be mindful of your desired texture—cook it longer for a softer bite or reduce the time slightly for more bite. Remember, adding barley to the crockpot at the start ensures it absorbs the flavors of the broth and spices beautifully.

To ensure your barley cooks properly, rinse it under cold water before adding it to the crockpot. This step helps remove any excess starch, which can lead to a gummy texture. It’s just a minute of prep that pays off significantly, helping your soup achieve that silky finish. If you're in a hurry, quick-cooking barley can be used as a substitute but will require decreased cooking time, making it perfect for busy weekdays.

Vegetable Variety

The beauty of this soup lies in its versatility. While the recipe provides a solid base with carrots, celery, and bell peppers, feel free to customize with your favorite seasonal vegetables. Zucchini, kale, or spinach are excellent additions that can be thrown in during the last hour of cooking to maintain some texture and freshness. My tip is to aim for vibrant colors to make the dish as visually appealing as it is nutritious.

If you're aiming for a heartier soup, consider adding protein like chickpeas or lentils. These legumes not only enhance the nutrient profile but also add additional fiber, which keeps you feeling full longer. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly—both chickpeas and lentils cook faster than barley, so add them based on their respective cooking times to avoid mushiness.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create your Healthy Crockpot Barley Soup.

Ingredients

1 cup barley
5 cups vegetable broth
1 cup carrots, diced
1 cup celery, diced
1 cup bell pepper, diced
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil

Mix all these ingredients in your crockpot for a delicious meal!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your soup.

Prepare the Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the onion, garlic, carrots, celery, and bell pepper for about 5 minutes until they start to soften.

Combine in Crockpot

Transfer the sautéed vegetables to a crockpot. Add the barley, vegetable broth, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper.

Cook the Soup

Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours, or on high for about 3 to 4 hours until the barley is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.

Serve and Enjoy

Once cooked, stir the soup well and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve hot with your choice of bread or crackers.

Enjoy your hearty and healthy soup!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or a handful of fresh herbs like parsley before serving.

Storage and Reheating

This soup is perfect for meal prep! Refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container for up to five days. When reheating, you may notice that the barley continues to absorb liquid, making the soup thicker. Simply add a splash of broth or water while reheating on the stove over medium-low heat to achieve your desired consistency. I personally like to prepare a double batch to enjoy throughout the week.

If you want to freeze the soup, store it in freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion as it freezes. It can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. If you find the soup has thickened too much in the freezer, adding a bit of warm broth while reheating will bring it back to life.

Serving Suggestions

This Healthy Crockpot Barley Soup is fantastic on its own, but serving it with a crusty piece of whole-grain bread not only enhances the meal but also provides extra fiber and heartiness. For a lighter option, consider pairing it with a simple green salad drizzled with a lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.

You can also elevate your soup with garnishes to create a more restaurant-like experience. Fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro add a burst of freshness, while a sprinkle of lemon juice brings out the flavors beautifully. A dollop of yogurt or sour cream can add creaminess and richness, catering to different preferences within your family or guests.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen vegetables?

Absolutely! Frozen vegetables can save time and work just as well in this recipe.

→ How can I make this soup vegetarian?

Simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and you're all set!

→ Can I add meat to the soup?

Yes, you can add shredded chicken or cooked sausage for more protein.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It also freezes well for up to 3 months.