With all the Janmashtami celebrations, I did some major hogging. All those savories calling me with their aroma and appetizing look, I can hardly ignore them just like that – can I? But then its inevitable that making friends with them, I had to make enemies with my (@%!%!$%) weighing machine. While it sat smiling and its expression indicating “I told you so!”, I had to get back to eating ‘normally’

I dint want to feel that I am back to humdrum, hence made some hearty barley soup, with paneer added for the added nutrition. I remembered seeing a similar recipe with chicken in it and to make my substitution with a vegetarian protein I used some skim milk paneer which is homemade. You can use shop bought ones too – no harm done.

The amount of barley is upto you – whether you want to make 1 complete meal out of it or just as a starter. This Soup was all I had to see me through the day, so I added a little more Barley than reqd. and the Paneer was to give me the energy boost to make sure I dint get hungry soon after. I served it with some left over Saffron and Basil Breadsticks which I posted already. Together (2 breadsticks and 1 bowl of soup) was so hearty that I dint feel hungry until dinner!!!! (although I did eat a few assorted nuts in the evening to fulfill my food pyramid requirements)

Wash the pearl barley well under cold running water

Soak it in some water for at least 1-2 hours. Although this step is not necessary, I find that this step actually helps the barley to cook little faster. If you dont have time to pre soak, no problems! Go straight ahead to the next step.

In a skillet in 1/2 tsp oil, saute the bay leaves along with onions and celery with little salt. Add the carrots, potatoes and turmeric and let it cook for another 2-3min.

Add the drained barley and paneer along with turmeric- give it a quick stir for another 1-2 minutes

Add about 3-4 cups of water/vegetable stock – close the lid and cook for about 20-30 minutes or until the barley is cooked.

Add more salt and pepper to taste and garnish with some cilantro. Serve hot either one their own or with some bread sticks. Hearty, filling, nutritious and low in fat! The weighing machine fairy is happy!

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