How to Make Zuppa di Orzo e Fagioli (Bean and Barley Soup) - A Step-by-Step Guide

If you're looking for a hearty and comforting soup that is perfect for a cozy night in, then look no further than Zuppa di Orzo e Fagioli, also known as Bean and Barley Soup. This traditional Italian dish is known for its rich and flavorful broth, tender beans, and chewy barley, making it a satisfying and nourishing meal.

Zuppa di Orzo e Fagioli has been a staple in Italian cuisine for centuries, and it's no wonder why. The combination of simple, wholesome ingredients creates a dish t...

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Ingredients

  • ½ pound pearl barley
  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • 2 ounces pancetta bacon, diced
  • ¾ onion, chopped
  • 1 carrot, chopped
  • 1 stalk celery, chopped
  • 2 (15 ounce) cans cannellini beans, drained and rinsed, divided
  • water to cover
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 sprig fresh rosemary
  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, or as desired

Information

  • Prep Time: 10 mins
  • Cook Time: 50 mins
  • Additional Time: 1 hr 5 mins
  • Total Time: 2 hrs 5 mins
  • Servings: 4
  • Yield: 4 servings

  • Place barley into a bowl and cover with several inches of cool water; let stand for 1 hour. Drain.
  • Heat the oil in a heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium-high heat. Add pancetta and cook until slightly crisp, about 3 or 4 minutes. Stir onion, carrot, and celery into pancetta and cook until vegetables are slightly softened, 2 to 3 minutes.
  • Mix half of the beans into vegetable-pancetta mixture and pour in enough water to cover; stir in barley and remaining beans. Season mixture with salt and pepper. Bring liquid to a boil, reduce heat to medium-low, and simmer for 40 minutes, stirring regularly and adding more water if soup gets too thick.
  • Remove saucepan from heat and allow to sit for 5 minutes. Serve soup with rosemary leaves and a drizzle of olive oil.
  • Nutrition

    536 cal.

    • Total Fat: 18g
    • Saturated Fat: 3g
    • Cholesterol: 5mg
    • Sodium: 1739mg
    • Total Carbohydrate: 77g
    • Dietary Fiber: 19g
    • Total Sugars: 3g
    • Protein: 18g
    • Vitamin C: 5mg
    • Calcium: 114mg
    • Iron: 5mg
    • Potassium: 438mg