# What You'll Need:
→ Vegetables
01 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
02 - 1 medium onion, finely chopped
03 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
04 - 2 medium carrots, diced
05 - 2 celery stalks, diced
06 - 14 ounces mushrooms, sliced (cremini or button recommended)
07 - 1 teaspoon dried thyme
08 - 1 teaspoon dried oregano
→ Grains & Liquids
09 - 2/3 cup pearl barley, rinsed
10 - 6 cups vegetable broth
11 - 1 bay leaf
→ Seasoning & Garnish
12 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
13 - 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
14 - 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
# Cooking Steps:
01 - Heat olive oil in large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook 3 minutes until translucent.
02 - Stir in garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until vegetables begin to soften.
03 - Add mushrooms and cook 6-8 minutes, stirring frequently, until they release moisture and begin to brown.
04 - Sprinkle thyme and oregano over vegetables, stirring to coat evenly.
05 - Add rinsed pearl barley, vegetable broth, and bay leaf. Stir thoroughly to combine.
06 - Bring to boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 35-40 minutes, until barley is tender and soup has thickened slightly.
07 - Remove bay leaf. Season to taste with salt, pepper, and lemon juice if desired.
08 - Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley.
