Ingredients

8 cups homemade meat broth ( or a mix of half store-bought and half water )
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 ounces sliced pancetta , finely chopped
1 medium onion , finely chopped
2 celery ribs , finely chopped
1 lb assorted mushroom , such as white , cremini , portabello
4 tablespoons chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley
2 garlic cloves , minced
3 medium boiling potatoes , peeled and chopped
salt
fresh ground black pepper
1/2 cup pearl barley
Mushroom and Potato Soup, or Minestra di Funghi e Patate in Italian, is a traditional dish in the Tuscan region of Italy. It’s a simple yet satisfying soup made with a flavorful combination of mushrooms, potatoes, and pearl barley. The soup is easy to make, requires minimal effort, and can be ready in less than an hour. It’s a great option for a weeknight meal or a lazy weekend afternoon. The soup can be served with a slice of crusty bread and a drizzle of olive oil to make it even more delicious.

Instructions

1.In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2.Add the pancetta and cook for 2-3 minutes or until crispy.
3.Add the onion and celery. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until onion is translucent.
4.Add the mushrooms and cook for 10-12 minutes or until they are tender.
5.Add the garlic and cook for another minute.
6.Add the homemade meat broth and potatoes. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook until the potatoes are cooked through, about 15-20 minutes.
7.Add the pearl barley and cook for 10-12 minutes or until tender.
8.Season with salt and pepper.
9.Ladle the soup into bowls and sprinkle with fresh parsley.

PROS

The Mushroom and Potato Soup is hearty, filling, and delicious.

It’s easy to make and perfect for a cold winter evening.

The pearl barley in the soup adds a nice chewy texture and is a great source of fiber and protein.

CONS

Mushrooms can trigger allergic reactions in some people, so be careful if you have any allergies.

The soup contains pancetta, which is a type of Italian bacon, and may not be suitable for vegetarians and vegans.

While the soup is healthy overall, the pancetta adds some extra fat and calories.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

The Mushroom and Potato Soup is low in saturated fat and high in protein, fiber, and potassium. It’s also a good source of vitamins B and C.
The soup can help improve digestion, boost the immune system, and promote heart health.
Mushrooms are rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that can help prevent chronic diseases.

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