Healthy Crockpot Mushroom Barley Stew

Name: Healthy Crockpot Mushroom Barley Stew
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 4 h
Total time: 4 h 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup pearl barley; 8 oz mixed mushrooms (e.g., cremini, shiitake, white), sliced; 1 cup carrots, diced; 1 cup celery, diced; 1 medium onion, chopped; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 6 cups vegetable broth; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon marjoram; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Natural Inspiration

I absolutely love making this Healthy Crockpot Mushroom Barley Stew on chilly days. It’s incredibly comforting and filled with wholesome ingredients that nourish both the body and soul. The best part? I can simply toss everything into my slow cooker in the morning, and by dinner, my home smells divine. The combination of mushrooms, barley, and fresh herbs creates a savory aroma that draws everyone to the kitchen, and it’s a hearty meal that satisfies even the pickiest eaters among us.

Created by

Darcy Penrose

Last updated on 2026-01-06T11:25:34.530Z

When I first tried this Healthy Crockpot Mushroom Barley Stew, I was amazed at how simple yet fulfilling it turned out to be. I opted for a mix of earthy mushrooms and nutty barley, which not only enhanced the texture but also elevated the flavor to new heights. One tip I discovered is to sauté the mushrooms briefly before adding them to the slow cooker; this step intensifies their taste and richness in the final dish.

Another delightful revelation was how the ingredients meld together over the hours. The barley softens and absorbs all the savory essence, creating a creamy consistency without any cream. It truly feels like a warm hug in a bowl, and I make it on repeat, especially when the weather cools down!

You'll Love This Recipe Because
It's a one-pot meal that makes cleanup a breeze
Rich, umami flavors from a variety of mushrooms
Nutritious barley adds a hearty texture and fullness

Understanding the Ingredients

The combination of mushrooms in this stew is crucial for achieving a deep, rich umami flavor. I like to use a mix of cremini, shiitake, and white mushrooms for their varying textures and tastes. Cremini adds earthiness, shiitake brings a touch of smokiness, while white mushrooms lend a delicate backdrop. If you prefer, you can substitute with any favorite varieties or even dried mushrooms, which can be rehydrated for a concentrated flavor.

Pearl barley is not just a nutritious addition; it also plays a key role in the stew's texture. As it cooks, the barley absorbs the broth, making the dish hearty and filling. Ensure you rinse the barley to remove any excess starch, which can lead to a gummy texture. If you're looking for a gluten-free alternative, substitute with quinoa or brown rice, but adjust cooking times accordingly.

Cooking Tips for Perfect Stew

Sautéing the mushrooms before adding them to the crockpot is a step you won't want to skip. This quick process caramelizes the mushrooms, enhancing their flavor and aroma, which in turn elevates the overall stew. Keep a close eye while sautéing; you want them golden brown but not burnt. If they release too much moisture, turn up the heat slightly to allow it to evaporate before transferring them to the crockpot.

When cooking the stew, it’s important to check the tenderness of the barley after about 4 hours on low. If you prefer a thicker texture, you can leave the lid off for the last 30 minutes of cooking. This allows excess liquid to evaporate. Remember to stir occasionally; this not only helps to cook the barley evenly but also incorporates the flavors as they meld together beautifully.

Ingredients

For the Stew

1 cup pearl barley
8 oz mixed mushrooms (e.g., cremini, shiitake, white), sliced
1 cup carrots, diced
1 cup celery, diced
1 medium onion, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
6 cups vegetable broth
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon marjoram
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

Rinse the pearl barley under cold water and set aside. Prepare the vegetables by chopping the onions, carrots, and celery, and slice the mushrooms.

Sauté the Mushrooms

In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the sliced mushrooms for about 5 minutes until they are golden brown. This enhances their flavor.

Combine in the Crockpot

Transfer the sautéed mushrooms, pearl barley, diced carrots, celery, chopped onions, minced garlic, vegetable broth, soy sauce, dried thyme, and marjoram into your crockpot. Stir to combine thoroughly.

Cook the Stew

Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or until the barley is tender and the stew has thickened. Stir occasionally to help the barley cook evenly.

Serve and Garnish

Once cooked, taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Serve in bowls, garnished with freshly chopped parsley.

Pro Tips

Feel free to add other vegetables such as spinach or peas towards the end of cooking for extra nutrition and color. This stew lasts in the fridge for up to 4 days, and the flavors only improve over time!

Serving Suggestions

This Healthy Crockpot Mushroom Barley Stew can be served on its own for a filling meal, but you might also consider pairing it with a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious broth. For a touch of freshness, serve with a simple side salad dressed in a light vinaigrette, which balances the richness of the stew.

To elevate the meal, consider adding a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese or a drizzle of your favorite olive oil just before serving. Both add a lovely richness that complements the earthy flavors of the mushrooms. You can also customize the garnish with other fresh herbs like thyme or chives for added flair and freshness.

Make-Ahead and Storage

One of the great benefits of this stew is that it can be made ahead of time. After cooking, allow the stew to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, allowing the flavors to develop even further. Just reheat on low on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.

If you want to freeze the stew, portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat. Be mindful that the barley may absorb some broth during freezing, so you might want to add a splash of vegetable broth or water while reheating to restore its desired consistency.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of barley?

Yes, but be aware that brown rice will require a different cooking time. Adjust accordingly.

→ Is this stew vegan-friendly?

Absolutely! All the ingredients are plant-based, making it a healthy vegan option.

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, this stew freezes well. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

→ How can I thicken the stew further?

If you prefer a thicker consistency, you can blend a portion of the stew and mix it back in before serving.