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Chicken and Pearl Barley Soup

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A hearty and nourishing soup made with tender chicken, nutty pearl barley, and aromatic spices simmered into a rich, comforting broth. Perfect for cozy meals and wholesome nourishment.

  • Author: Sophia
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Soup
  • Method: Simmering
  • Cuisine: Middle Eastern
  • Diet: Halal

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 kg chicken legs and thighs, skin removed
  • 3 large garlic cloves, finely chopped
  • 1 thumb-sized piece fresh ginger, peeled and crushed
  • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
  • 2 dried bay leaves
  • 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
  • 1/2 teaspoon coarsely ground black pepper
  • 175 g pearl barley
  • 1 litre hot chicken stock or water
  • 1 lemon, juice only
  • 1 large handful flat-leaf parsley, finely chopped
  • 25 g chives, finely chopped
  • extra chilli flakes (optional)
  • salt, to taste

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
  2. Add chicken pieces and cook for 6–8 minutes until lightly golden on both sides.
  3. Stir in garlic, ginger, cumin seeds, bay leaves, turmeric, and black pepper.
  4. Add chicken stock or water and pearl barley, then bring to a boil.
  5. Reduce heat and simmer for about 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
  6. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
  7. Take out chicken, remove meat from bones, and discard bones.
  8. Remove bay leaves and return chicken meat to the pot.
  9. Add 300–500 ml water to adjust consistency and bring back to a boil.
  10. Season with salt and serve hot with lemon juice, herbs, and optional chilli flakes.

Notes

  • Use homemade stock for a richer flavor.
  • Add vegetables like carrots, celery, or spinach for extra nutrition.
  • Substitute pearl barley with brown rice or lentils if desired.
  • Adjust spice level with more chilli flakes or fresh chili.
  • Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  • Add extra liquid when reheating as barley absorbs broth.
  • Freeze for up to 2 months and thaw before reheating.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://savorymomskitchen.com/chicken-and-pearl-barley-soup/