Instant Pot Polenta & Pearl Barley Soup: A Delicious Vegetarian Meal

Updated at: 28/01/2025

Craving a hearty, flavorful, and surprisingly easy vegetarian meal? Look no further than this Spicy Polenta & Pearl Barley Soup, a perfect blend of creamy polenta, chewy barley, and a vibrant kick of spice. This comforting soup is packed with wholesome ingredients and boasts a depth of flavor that belies its simplicity. It's the ideal dish for a chilly evening or a satisfying lunch, equally delicious on its own or paired with crusty bread. The unique combination of polenta and pearl barley creates a satisfying texture, while the carefully chosen spices deliver a warm and exciting taste experience.

This recipe utilizes the convenience of an Instant Pot for a quick and effortless cooking process, minimizing hands-on time without sacrificing flavor. Ready to experience the deliciousness for yourself? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions to create this incredible Spicy Polenta & Pearl Barley Soup.

Tools Needed

  • Instant Pot
  • Saucepan
  • Baking Dish
  • Frying Pan

Ingredients

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1. Prepare the Polenta

  • Combine water, cornmeal, salt, paprika, and chili flakes in the Instant Pot. Cook on high pressure for 9 minutes, then let the pressure release naturally (20-30 minutes).
  • If the Instant Pot polenta doesn't work, make it on the stovetop, stirring frequently to prevent burning. It should take about 10 minutes to thicken.
  • Once cooked, stir in butter. Pour into a baking dish and let cool completely to solidify.
Combine water, cornmeal, salt, paprika, and chili flakes in the Instant Pot. Cook on high pressure for 9 minutes, then let the pressure release naturally (20-30 minutes).If the Instant Pot polenta doesn't work, make it on the stovetop, stirring frequently to prevent burning. It should take about 10 minutes to thicken.Once cooked, stir in butter. Pour into a baking dish and let cool completely to solidify.
Prepare the Polenta

Step 2. Make the Pearl Barley Soup

  • For the soup, sauté onions, celery, and carrots in olive oil for 3 minutes in the Instant Pot's sauté function.
  • Add mushrooms, vegetable broth, water, pearl barley, green lentils, oregano, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to the Instant Pot.
  • Cook on the soup setting on high for 15 minutes. Let the pressure release naturally.
For the soup, sauté onions, celery, and carrots in olive oil for 3 minutes in the Instant Pot's sauté function.Add mushrooms, vegetable broth, water, pearl barley, green lentils, oregano, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to the Instant Pot. Cook on the soup setting on high for 15 minutes. Let the pressure release naturally.
Make the Pearl Barley Soup

Step 3. Cook the Polenta (Alternative Method)

  • If the Instant Pot polenta doesn't work, make it on the stovetop, stirring frequently to prevent burning. It should take about 10 minutes to thicken.
If the Instant Pot polenta doesn't work, make it on the stovetop, stirring frequently to prevent burning. It should take about 10 minutes to thicken.
Cook the Polenta (Alternative Method)

Step 4. Serve the Meal

  • Serve the solidified polenta sliced and pan-fried, alongside the soup and winter squash.
Serve the solidified polenta sliced and pan-fried, alongside the soup and winter squash.
Serve the Meal

Read more: Italian Zucchini Soup with Parmesan Croutons: A Delicious Recipe

Tips

  • Adjust the amount of chili flakes to your spice preference. You can omit them entirely if desired.
  • Polenta can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week or frozen for longer storage.
  • Feel free to adjust the soup recipe – the recipe omits the flour for easier cooking in the Instant Pot.

Nutrition

  • N/A

FAQs

1. Can I use different grains instead of pearl barley?

Yes! Other grains like farro, quinoa, or even brown rice would work well. Adjust cooking time as needed based on the grain's recommended cooking time.

2. How can I make this soup spicier?

Add more chili flakes or a diced jalapeño pepper for extra heat. You could also incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce.


This Instant Pot Polenta & Pearl Barley Soup is a testament to the power of simple ingredients transformed into a deeply satisfying meal. Enjoy its warmth and comforting flavors, perfect for any occasion. From start to finish, this recipe offers a delicious and convenient way to enjoy a healthy and hearty vegetarian dinner.