Mushroom barley soup is a timeless comfort dish, celebrated for its heartiness, depth of flavor, and wholesome ingredients.
The combination of earthy mushrooms and chewy barley creates a unique texture and flavor profile that is both satisfying and nutritious.
From traditional family recipes to inventive, contemporary twists, there’s a version of mushroom barley soup for everyone.
In this collection of 30+ recipes, we’ll explore a variety of delicious options—from vegan and gluten-free adaptations to recipes featuring unique ingredients like coconut milk, roasted garlic, or miso for an added burst of flavor.
Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight meal, a dish that’s easy to prepare in bulk, or an elevated soup with complex flavors, this guide has something for every taste and occasion.
30+ Easy Mushroom Barley Soup Recipes to Warm Your Soul
This curated collection of 30+ mushroom barley soup recipes showcases the incredible versatility of this classic dish.
By using different types of mushrooms, grains, herbs, and additional ingredients, you can enjoy mushroom barley soup in a variety of exciting ways, each with its own unique flair.
These recipes not only highlight the soup’s comforting qualities but also show how it can be customized to suit different dietary preferences and flavor preferences.
With so many options to explore, you’re sure to find a few favorites that you’ll come back to time and again.
So, grab a pot and start cooking—delicious bowls of mushroom barley soup await!
Hearty Mushroom Barley Soup with Root Vegetables
This hearty mushroom barley soup with root vegetables combines earthy mushrooms, tender barley, and a medley of root vegetables to create a satisfying, nutrient-rich bowl. This recipe is perfect for a chilly day, offering deep, rich flavors in every spoonful. With its wholesome ingredients, this soup is as nutritious as it is comforting, making it ideal for family dinners or meal prep.
Ingredients
- 1 cup pearl barley
- 1 lb mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, or shiitake), sliced
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 parsnips, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 8 cups vegetable broth
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions, garlic, carrots, parsnips, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables are tender, about 5–7 minutes.
- Add the mushrooms and cook until they release their juices, around 5 more minutes.
- Stir in the barley, vegetable broth, bay leaf, and thyme. Season with salt and pepper.
- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 40–50 minutes, or until the barley is tender and the flavors meld together.
- Discard the bay leaf. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
This hearty mushroom barley soup with root vegetables is the perfect meal to nourish your body and warm your soul. Packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals, it’s an easy way to enjoy a filling, nutritious meal. The combination of mushrooms, barley, and root vegetables gives the soup a rich, earthy depth of flavor, making it a go-to recipe for cozy evenings.
Creamy Vegan Mushroom Barley Soup
Creamy, rich, and completely vegan, this mushroom barley soup is a delicious way to indulge in plant-based comfort food. Using coconut milk or cashew cream for the base, this soup has a delightful creamy texture without any dairy. It’s ideal for those who want a rich soup without the heaviness of traditional cream-based soups.
Ingredients
- 1 cup pearl barley
- 1 lb baby bella mushrooms, sliced
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup coconut milk (or cashew cream)
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh thyme or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions and garlic and sauté until soft, about 5 minutes.
- Add the mushrooms and cook until they release their liquid, about 5–7 minutes.
- Stir in the barley, vegetable broth, rosemary, and smoked paprika. Season with salt and pepper.
- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook for 40–50 minutes, or until the barley is tender.
- Stir in the coconut milk (or cashew cream) and let it heat through for another 5 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley before serving.
This creamy vegan mushroom barley soup is a cozy, dairy-free option that’s packed with flavor and texture. The addition of coconut milk or cashew cream gives it a luxurious mouthfeel without being overly rich. It’s an ideal recipe for vegans or anyone looking to enjoy a delicious, plant-based version of a classic creamy soup.
Savory Mushroom Barley Soup with Beef Broth
For a heartier version of mushroom barley soup, this recipe incorporates beef broth for a robust, savory flavor. With the added depth of umami, this version is perfect for meat lovers who enjoy a more substantial soup. The beef broth adds richness to the mushrooms and barley, making this recipe a meal on its own.
Ingredients
- 1 cup pearl barley
- 1 lb cremini mushrooms, sliced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 lb beef chuck (optional), cut into small cubes
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 8 cups beef broth (or mushroom broth for a vegetarian option)
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add beef chuck (if using) and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from the pot and set aside.
- In the same pot, add the onions and garlic and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the mushrooms and cook until they begin to release their juices, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the barley, beef broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Return the beef to the pot if using.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 50–60 minutes, or until barley is tender.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
This savory mushroom barley soup with beef broth is the ultimate choice for a hearty, satisfying meal. The combination of mushrooms, tender barley, and beef broth provides an incredibly rich flavor profile that’s sure to please. Whether enjoyed as a starter or the main course, this soup is bound to become a favorite for chilly evenings.
Mediterranean Mushroom Barley Soup with Spinach and Lemon
This Mediterranean mushroom barley soup is brightened with a splash of lemon and fresh spinach, bringing a refreshing twist to the classic recipe. With a blend of earthy mushrooms, wholesome barley, and Mediterranean flavors, this soup is both comforting and invigorating. The addition of lemon adds a hint of tanginess, while the spinach provides extra nutrients, making this a deliciously light but filling soup option.
Ingredients
- 1 cup pearl barley
- 1 lb mushrooms (cremini or button), sliced
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Fresh parsley or dill for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the mushrooms and cook until they release their juices, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the barley, vegetable broth, oregano, and basil. Season with salt and pepper.
- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook for 40–50 minutes, until the barley is tender.
- Add the spinach and lemon juice, stirring until the spinach wilts, about 2–3 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or dill and serve.
The Mediterranean mushroom barley soup offers a refreshing take with its addition of lemon and spinach, creating a lighter, more vibrant flavor profile. It’s a wonderful choice for those who want a comforting soup with a touch of brightness. This recipe brings together Mediterranean flavors and wholesome ingredients, making it a satisfying yet revitalizing meal.
Smoky Mushroom Barley Soup with Roasted Red Peppers
This smoky mushroom barley soup features roasted red peppers and smoked paprika, giving it a bold, rich flavor. The sweetness of the roasted peppers complements the earthiness of the mushrooms, while smoked paprika adds depth and warmth. This is a fantastic soup for those who enjoy a bit of smoky, hearty flavor in their bowl.
Ingredients
- 1 cup pearl barley
- 1 lb mixed mushrooms, sliced
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 roasted red pepper, diced (jarred or homemade)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh thyme or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until tender, about 5 minutes.
- Add the mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture, around 5–7 minutes.
- Stir in the barley, vegetable broth, smoked paprika, bay leaf, and salt and pepper.
- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook for 40–50 minutes, or until the barley is tender.
- Add the roasted red pepper and let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes to incorporate the flavors.
- Remove the bay leaf and garnish with fresh thyme or parsley.
This smoky mushroom barley soup with roasted red peppers is full of flavor and heartiness, making it an excellent choice for cold days or when you want something with a bit of a kick. The smoked paprika and roasted peppers bring a boldness to this soup, giving it a complex, layered taste that’s both comforting and exciting.
Ginger Mushroom Barley Soup with Carrots and Sesame
This ginger mushroom barley soup combines Asian-inspired flavors, with fresh ginger and sesame adding an aromatic twist. The combination of mushrooms, barley, and carrots provides a familiar, comforting base, while ginger and sesame bring a warming, savory quality. This soup is a perfect option when you’re craving something unique yet easy to prepare.
Ingredients
- 1 cup pearl barley
- 1 lb shiitake or button mushrooms, sliced
- 1 large carrot, sliced into rounds
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
- 2 tbsp sesame oil
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Green onions and sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat sesame oil over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, and ginger, sautéing until fragrant, about 5 minutes.
- Add the mushrooms and carrots, cooking until the mushrooms release their liquid, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the barley, vegetable broth, soy sauce, salt, and pepper.
- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook for 40–50 minutes, or until the barley is tender.
- Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds before serving.
This ginger mushroom barley soup offers an exciting twist with Asian-inspired flavors, delivering warmth and depth with each bite. The sesame oil, soy sauce, and ginger create a unique and aromatic soup that’s both cozy and refreshing. This soup is an excellent way to enjoy a comforting meal with a distinct, bold flavor.
Spiced Mushroom Barley Soup with Cumin and Coriander
This spiced mushroom barley soup features warm flavors of cumin and coriander, transforming a classic soup into an aromatic delight. The spices add depth and complexity, complementing the mushrooms and barley beautifully. This soup is great for anyone looking to enjoy a hearty, nourishing meal with a Middle Eastern-inspired twist.
Ingredients
- 1 cup pearl barley
- 1 lb button or cremini mushrooms, sliced
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1/2 tsp ground turmeric
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions and garlic, sautéing until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the cumin, coriander, and turmeric, stirring until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add the mushrooms and cook until they release their juices, about 5–7 minutes.
- Stir in the barley and vegetable broth. Season with salt and pepper.
- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook for 40–50 minutes, or until the barley is tender.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
This spiced mushroom barley soup with cumin and coriander offers a warm, aromatic flavor that makes each spoonful a delight. The spices add complexity, enhancing the earthiness of the mushrooms while creating a soup that feels both cozy and exotic. This is a fantastic option for anyone looking to try a unique variation on the classic.
Wild Mushroom Barley Soup with Wild Rice
This wild mushroom barley soup incorporates wild rice for a hearty, rustic feel. Wild mushrooms such as chanterelles or oyster mushrooms give the soup a deep, earthy flavor, while wild rice adds a unique chewy texture. This soup is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a truly satisfying, woodsy meal that’s packed with fiber and flavor.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup pearl barley
- 1/2 cup wild rice
- 1 lb wild mushrooms (such as chanterelles, oyster, or shiitake), sliced
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions and garlic, sautéing until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the mushrooms and cook until they release their juices, about 5–7 minutes.
- Stir in the barley, wild rice, vegetable broth, bay leaf, and thyme. Season with salt and pepper.
- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook for 45–55 minutes, or until the barley and wild rice are tender.
- Remove the bay leaf and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
This wild mushroom barley soup with wild rice combines unique flavors and textures, making it a truly hearty and satisfying option. The wild mushrooms bring a depth of earthy flavor, while the wild rice provides a chewy texture that’s wonderfully complementary to the tender barley. This soup is ideal for those who appreciate rustic, woodsy dishes.
Italian Mushroom Barley Soup with White Beans and Kale
This Italian-inspired mushroom barley soup features white beans and kale, making it a filling and nutritious meal. With Italian herbs and creamy white beans, this soup has a robust flavor profile and plenty of protein and fiber. The addition of kale gives it a healthy boost, making it a great option for a well-rounded, veggie-rich dish.
Ingredients
- 1 cup pearl barley
- 1 lb cremini or button mushrooms, sliced
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups kale, chopped
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the mushrooms and cook until they release their juices, about 5–7 minutes.
- Stir in the barley, vegetable broth, basil, oregano, and salt and pepper.
- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook for 40–50 minutes, or until the barley is tender.
- Add the white beans and kale, simmering for another 5 minutes until the kale is wilted and beans are heated through.
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving.
This Italian mushroom barley soup with white beans and kale is a hearty, balanced meal that’s packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients. The Italian herbs add a delicious depth of flavor, while the white beans and kale create a satisfying texture. This soup is perfect for a nourishing lunch or dinner, offering comfort and great taste in every bowl.
Creamy Coconut Mushroom Barley Soup
This creamy coconut mushroom barley soup combines the earthy flavors of mushrooms and barley with the luxurious, silky texture of coconut milk. The coconut milk adds a hint of sweetness, creating a velvety soup that’s both rich and comforting. This is a fantastic option for anyone seeking a dairy-free yet creamy mushroom barley soup.
Ingredients
- 1 cup pearl barley
- 1 lb mushrooms (shiitake, button, or cremini), sliced
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
- 1 tbsp soy sauce or tamari
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro or green onions for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the mushrooms and cook until they release their juices, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the barley and vegetable broth, and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for 40–50 minutes, until the barley is tender.
- Stir in the coconut milk and soy sauce, simmering for another 5 minutes until warmed through.
- Season with salt and pepper, and garnish with cilantro or green onions before serving.
This creamy coconut mushroom barley soup is a rich and velvety twist on the traditional recipe. The coconut milk adds depth and a gentle sweetness that perfectly complements the mushrooms, creating a luxurious bowl of soup. Ideal for a cold day or whenever you crave a comforting, creamy dish, this soup will surely become a favorite.
Tomato Mushroom Barley Soup with Italian Herbs
This tomato mushroom barley soup is a heartier, Italian-inspired variation on the classic mushroom barley soup. With a tomato base and Italian herbs, this soup has a rich and tangy flavor, perfect for anyone who loves a tomato-infused broth. The barley and mushrooms add texture and earthy undertones, creating a balanced and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
- 1 cup pearl barley
- 1 lb mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the mushrooms and cook until they release their juices, about 5–7 minutes.
- Stir in the barley, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook for 40–50 minutes, or until the barley is tender.
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving.
This tomato mushroom barley soup is bursting with Italian-inspired flavors, bringing a rich, tangy twist to the classic recipe. The addition of tomatoes and herbs makes it a vibrant, hearty dish, perfect for those who enjoy a robust and flavorful soup. This recipe provides comfort with a Mediterranean touch, making it a must-try.
Herbed Mushroom Barley Soup with Leeks and Thyme
This herbed mushroom barley soup incorporates leeks and fresh thyme, adding a fragrant and subtle sweetness to the soup. The leeks bring a mild, onion-like flavor that pairs beautifully with the mushrooms, while thyme infuses the soup with a warm, aromatic depth. This recipe is a great choice for anyone looking for a classic, herb-forward mushroom barley soup.
Ingredients
- 1 cup pearl barley
- 1 lb mushrooms (cremini or button), sliced
- 2 medium leeks, sliced (white and light green parts only)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 2–3 sprigs fresh thyme (or 1 tsp dried thyme)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the leeks and garlic, sautéing until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the mushrooms and cook until they release their juices, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the barley, vegetable broth, and thyme. Season with salt and pepper.
- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook for 40–50 minutes, or until the barley is tender.
- Remove the thyme sprigs (if using fresh) and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
This herbed mushroom barley soup with leeks and thyme is a classic, flavorful variation that highlights the earthy flavors of mushrooms and herbs. The leeks add a delicate sweetness, while thyme brings warmth and fragrance, making this soup comforting and satisfying. Perfect for a cozy meal, this recipe is a delightful option for a wholesome, hearty bowl of soup.
Miso Mushroom Barley Soup with Green Onions
This miso mushroom barley soup combines savory miso paste with mushrooms and barley for a comforting, umami-rich meal. Miso adds a delicious depth of flavor, while green onions lend a fresh, peppery bite. This soup is perfect for those seeking a fusion of Asian-inspired flavors and classic mushroom barley soup.
Ingredients
- 1 cup pearl barley
- 1 lb mushrooms (shiitake or cremini), sliced
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 2 tbsp miso paste
- 1 cup green onions, sliced (reserve some for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the mushrooms and cook until they release their juices, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the barley and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook for 40–50 minutes, until the barley is tender.
- In a small bowl, dissolve the miso paste with a few tablespoons of hot broth from the pot, then stir the mixture back into the soup.
- Add the green onions, cooking for another 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and garnish with additional green onions before serving.
This miso mushroom barley soup with green onions is packed with umami flavor, thanks to the addition of miso paste. It’s a rich and comforting soup with a slight peppery freshness from the green onions. This recipe is a wonderful choice for anyone looking for a warm, nourishing soup with Asian-inspired flavors.
Roasted Garlic Mushroom Barley Soup
This roasted garlic mushroom barley soup brings a whole new layer of flavor to the classic recipe by using roasted garlic. Roasting the garlic beforehand intensifies its sweetness, which perfectly complements the earthiness of the mushrooms and barley. It’s a comforting and slightly sweet soup ideal for garlic lovers.
Ingredients
- 1 cup pearl barley
- 1 lb mushrooms (cremini or button), sliced
- 1 large onion, diced
- 1 bulb garlic, roasted (see instructions)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh thyme for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the top off a bulb of garlic, drizzle with olive oil, and wrap in foil. Roast for 30–40 minutes, until the garlic is soft and caramelized.
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, sautéing until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the mushrooms and cook until they release their juices, about 5 minutes.
- Squeeze the roasted garlic cloves into the pot, then stir in the barley and vegetable broth. Season with salt and pepper.
- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook for 40–50 minutes, or until the barley is tender.
- Garnish with fresh thyme before serving.
The roasted garlic mushroom barley soup is rich and full of complex flavors, with the roasted garlic adding a natural sweetness that beautifully enhances the mushrooms and barley. It’s a deliciously fragrant soup perfect for cozy evenings or whenever you crave something flavorful and satisfying.
Root Vegetable and Mushroom Barley Soup
This root vegetable and mushroom barley soup brings together the earthy flavors of mushrooms with the natural sweetness of root vegetables like carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes. This recipe is hearty, filling, and packed with nutrients, making it an excellent option for a complete, wholesome meal.
Ingredients
- 1 cup pearl barley
- 1 lb mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 carrots, diced
- 1 parsnip, diced
- 1 sweet potato, diced
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the mushrooms, carrots, parsnip, and sweet potato, cooking for 5–7 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
- Stir in the barley, vegetable broth, and bay leaf. Season with salt and pepper.
- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook for 45–55 minutes, or until the barley and root vegetables are tender.
- Remove the bay leaf and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
This root vegetable and mushroom barley soup is a nourishing, hearty meal that combines the flavors of earthy mushrooms with the natural sweetness of root vegetables. Packed with vitamins and fiber, this soup is perfect for a wholesome, warming dish that satisfies the body and soul.
Note: More recipes are coming soon!