Prep 30 min ∙ Cook 1 hour ∙ Serves 6
2 tablespoons olive oil, plus extra for drizzling
1 medium onion, chopped
2 carrots, peeled and chopped
2 celery stalks, chopped
2 garlic cloves, chopped Salt
1 (14 1/2-ounce) can diced tomatoes
1 pound lentils (approximately 1 1/4 cups)
2/3 cup pearl barley
11 cups vegetable broth (can substitute water)
4 to 6 fresh thyme sprigs
1) Heat the oil in a heavy large pot over medium heat.
2) Add the onion, carrots, and celery. Add the garlic and salt and sauté until all the vegetables are tender, about 5 to 8 minutes.
3) Add the tomatoes with their juices. Simmer until the juices evaporate a little and the tomatoes break down, stirring occasionally, about 8 minutes.
4) Add the lentils and pearl barley, mix to coat.
5) Add the broth and stir.
6) Add the thyme sprigs. Bring to a boil over high heat.
7) Cover and simmer over low heat until the lentils and barley are tender, about 40 minutes.
8) Season with salt to taste.
9) Ladle the soup into bowls, drizzle with olive oil and serve.
