Warm, hearty, and bursting with vibrant Middle Eastern flavors, Iranian Barley Soup (Ash-e-Jo) is the perfect comfort food for any season. This wholesome recipe combines tender pearl barley, a medley of fresh vegetables, and aromatic turmeric for a rich and satisfying dish. Simmered slowly in a savory broth and finished with fresh parsley and a splash of bright lemon juice, this soup is both nutritious and deeply flavorful. Its velvety texture and subtle notes of garlic and black pepper make it an excellent choice for a light yet filling meal. Serve it with crusty bread for the ultimate cozy experience. Perfect for meal prepping or feeding a crowd, this easy-to-make Persian-inspired soup is a must-try for anyone craving a taste of traditional Iranian cuisine.
Rinse the pearl barley thoroughly under cold water and set aside.
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
Finely chop the onion, mince the garlic, and add them to the pot. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent, about 5 minutes.
Slice the carrots and celery, then add them to the pot. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Dice the tomatoes and add them to the pot along with the turmeric powder. Stir well to combine and let cook for 2-3 minutes.
Add the rinsed pearl barley, vegetable broth, and water to the pot. Stir to combine and bring to a boil.
Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for 45 minutes, or until the barley is tender and the soup has thickened slightly.
Season with salt and ground black pepper. Adjust the seasoning to taste.
Finely chop the parsley and stir it into the soup along with the lemon juice. Let simmer for another 5 minutes.
Serve the soup hot with crusty bread or a side of fresh herbs. Enjoy!
Calories |
1557 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 40.5 g | 52% | |
| Saturated Fat | 6.8 g | 34% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 5.8 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 4844 mg | 211% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 266.9 g | 97% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 55.6 g | 199% | |
| Total Sugars | 39.5 g | ||
| Protein | 44.7 g | 89% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 495 mg | 38% | |
| Iron | 14.0 mg | 78% | |
| Potassium | 3990 mg | 85% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.