Soothing Turmeric Chicken With Pearl Barley

Experience the ultimate restoration in a bowl with this Soothing Turmeric Chicken With Pearl Barley. This comforting, golden-hued soup is designed for those chilly nights when you crave something both hearty and healthy. By combining tender chicken breasts with fiber-rich pearl barley and the vibrant, anti-inflammatory properties of turmeric, this dish offers a modern twist on classic comfort food that nourishes the body and soul.

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The aroma of sautéed aromatics mixed with earthy cumin and thyme creates an inviting atmosphere as the soup simmers. The addition of zucchini towards the end adds a fresh bite without losing its structure, making every spoonful a colorful and textured delight.

Ingredients

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 400 g), diced
• 3/4 cup (130 g) pearl barley, rinsed
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 small zucchini, diced
• 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 (or to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish)
• Lemon wedges, for serving (optional garnish)

Instructions

Step 1

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5 minutes until vegetables begin to soften.

Step 2

Stir in the garlic, turmeric, cumin, and thyme. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 3

Add the diced chicken and cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring, until just starting to turn opaque.

Step 4

Pour in the chicken broth, add the pearl barley, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.

Step 5

Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 35 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 6

Add the diced zucchini, cover, and simmer for another 10–15 minutes, or until barley is tender and chicken is fully cooked.

Step 7

Taste and adjust seasoning. Ladle soup into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve with lemon wedges.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

Be mindful that turmeric has a tendency to stain porous surfaces and utensils. It is best to use stainless steel or non-porous silicone tools when preparing this dish. Additionally, ensure the pearl barley is rinsed well under cold water before cooking to ensure the broth remains clear and vibrant.

Varianten und Anpassungen

To make this a vegetarian meal, simply omit the chicken and increase the amount of pearl barley or add a can of chickpeas for texture. For an extra nutritional punch, stir in a handful of fresh spinach or kale during the final two minutes of simmering until just wilted.

Serviervorschläge

This soup is best enjoyed with a side of warm, crusty bread for dipping. For a sophisticated touch, pair your meal with a glass of chilled Pinot Grigio or a light-bodied Chardonnay to complement the earthy notes of the turmeric and cumin.

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Whether you're looking for a restorative weeknight dinner or a cozy meal to share with friends, this Turmeric Chicken and Pearl Barley soup is a nutritious, flavorful choice that never disappoints.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs work beautifully and add extra richness. Use the same amount and cooking time, as thighs remain tender even with longer simmering.

→ How do I prevent the turmeric from staining my cookware?

Use stainless steel or enamel-coated pots rather than plastic containers. Clean immediately after cooking, and if staining occurs, a paste of baking soda and water usually removes it.

→ Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Absolutely. Sauté the vegetables and spices first, then transfer everything to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours, adding zucchini in the last 30 minutes.

→ What can I substitute for pearl barley?

Farro, wheat berries, or brown rice make excellent substitutes. Adjust cooking time accordingly - farro needs about 30 minutes, while brown rice requires 40-45 minutes to become tender.

→ How long will leftovers keep?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The barley will absorb more liquid as it sits, so add extra broth when reheating to restore the soup's consistency.

→ Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, this freezes well for up to 3 months. Cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently, adding broth if needed.