Pin It Warmth and wellness meet in this Soothing Turmeric Chicken With Pearl Barley. This vibrant, golden soup is more than just a meal; it is a restorative experience designed to comfort you on the coldest nights. With tender chicken, toothsome barley, and the earthy, anti-inflammatory power of turmeric, it is a bowl full of modern comfort that is as nourishing as it is flavorful.
Pin It This recipe is a perfect example of modern comfort fusion, where simple ingredients are elevated by a few key spices. The pearl barley provides a wonderful, chewy texture that makes every bite feel substantial, while the addition of zucchini towards the end ensures a fresh, garden-crisp finish to the broth.
Ingredients
- Protein: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 400 g), diced
- Grains: 3/4 cup (130 g) pearl barley, rinsed
- Vegetables: 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 small zucchini, diced
- Broth & Seasonings: 6 cups (1.5 L) low-sodium chicken broth, 1 1/2 teaspoons ground turmeric, 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper, 1 teaspoon sea salt, 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin, 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Garnishes: 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped; lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- 1. Sauté the Base
- Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5 minutes until vegetables begin to soften.
- 2. Bloom Spices
- Stir in the minced garlic, turmeric, cumin, and thyme. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- 3. Brown the Chicken
- Add the diced chicken and cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring, until the meat just starts to turn opaque.
- 4. Combine and Simmer
- Pour in the chicken broth, then add the pearl barley, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
- 5. First Simmer
- Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 35 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- 6. Add Zucchini
- Add the diced zucchini, cover, and simmer for another 10–15 minutes, or until the barley is tender and the chicken is fully cooked.
- 7. Season and Serve
- Taste and adjust seasoning. Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve with lemon wedges.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
To ensure a smooth cooking process, have your large pot and chef's knife ready. Remember that turmeric can stain porous surfaces, so using stainless steel or non-porous utensils is highly recommended. Always rinse your pearl barley before adding it to the pot to remove excess starch for a clearer, more refined broth.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For a vegetarian version, simply omit the chicken and use an extra cup of pearl barley or add a can of chickpeas for protein. If you want to boost your greens, stir in a handful of fresh spinach or kale at the very end until wilted.
Serviervorschläge
This hearty soup is best served with a side of crusty bread to soak up every drop of the golden broth. For a wine pairing, try a chilled Pinot Grigio or a light-bodied Chardonnay, which complements the savory chicken and earthy turmeric perfectly.
Pin It Whether you are seeking a restorative meal or just a cozy night in, this Soothing Turmeric Chicken With Pearl Barley provides the perfect balance of health and hearty comfort. Enjoy every golden spoonful of this wholesome, high-protein dish.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What makes turmeric beneficial in soups?
Turmeric contains curcumin, a compound with powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. When combined with black pepper in this soup, your body absorbs more of these beneficial compounds. The golden spice also adds subtle earthiness and beautiful color to the broth.
- → Do I need to soak pearl barley before cooking?
No soaking required. Pearl barley is processed to remove the outer hull and bran layers, allowing it to cook directly in the soup. It will become tender during the 35-minute simmer, absorbing flavors and adding natural thickness to the broth.
- → Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Absolutely. Replace the chicken with an extra cup of pearl barley or add chickpeas for protein. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. The turmeric and vegetable base remains just as flavorful and comforting.
- → How should I store leftovers?
The soup keeps well in the refrigerator for 4-5 days in an airtight container. Pearl barley will continue absorbing liquid, so you may need to add more broth when reheating. This soup also freezes beautifully for up to 3 months.
- → What can I serve alongside this soup?
Crusty bread or warm naan pairs perfectly for dipping. A simple green salad with citrus vinaigrette complements the rich, warming flavors. For a complete meal, the soup provides plenty of protein and carbohydrates on its own.