Low Sodium Diet | Barley Recipe | Hearty Vegetable Barley Soup

barley

🥗Healthier: quinoa

💰Cheaper: brown rice

Quinoa is a gluten-free grain with a similar texture.

vegetable broth

🥗Healthier: homemade vegetable broth

💰Cheaper: water

Homemade broth is lower in sodium and more flavorful.

canned tomatoes

🥗Healthier: fresh tomatoes

💰Cheaper: crushed tomatoes

Crushed tomatoes are often less expensive and easy to use.

olive oil

🥗Healthier: avocado oil

💰Cheaper: canola oil

Canola oil is a budget-friendly option for cooking.

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat until shimmering.

Add chopped onion, carrots, and celery; sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened.

Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Add diced potatoes, zucchini, and green beans; cook for another 5 minutes.

Pour in vegetable broth and add canned tomatoes, including juices.

Stir in barley, bay leaves, thyme, salt, and black pepper.

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low.

Cover and simmer for 30-40 minutes until barley is tender.

Remove bay leaves before serving.

Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Cooking Techniques

Spice Level: