Ghanaian-inspired Barley Soup

Ingredients

This Ghanaian-inspired barley soup differs from the original Südtiroler Gerstensuppe in terms of flavor profile and spices used. While the original Italian version focuses on a milder taste with herbs like parsley and bay leaves, the Ghanaian adaptation incorporates bold and aromatic spices such as ginger, garlic, and chili powder. Additionally, the original recipe often includes bacon or ham, which is replaced in the Ghanaian version with protein-rich ingredients like chicken or beef. The Ghanaian-inspired barley soup offers a unique fusion of Italian and Ghanaian flavors, creating a delightful cross-cultural culinary experience. We alse have the original recipe for Südtiroler Gerstensuppe, so you can check it out.

• 1 cup (180g) barley grains 1 cup (180g) barley grains
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece ginger, grated 1-inch piece ginger, grated
• 1 teaspoon chili powder 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 2 carrots, diced 2 carrots, diced
• 2 potatoes, diced 2 potatoes, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup (150g) cooked chicken or beef, shredded 1 cup (150g) cooked chicken or beef, shredded
• 4 cups (950ml) chicken or vegetable broth 4 cups (950ml) chicken or vegetable broth
• Salt and pepper, to taste Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 8g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 45g, 6g
• Protein: 20g
• Fiber: 8g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Rinse the barley grains under cold water and set aside.
2. 2.
   In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.
3. 3.
   Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger to the pot. Sauté until fragrant and golden brown.
4. 4.
   Stir in the chili powder, turmeric, coriander, and cumin. Cook for an additional minute to release the flavors.
5. 5.
   Add the diced carrots, potatoes, bell pepper, and shredded chicken or beef to the pot. Stir well to combine.
6. 6.
   Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
7. 7.
   Reduce the heat to low and add the rinsed barley grains to the pot. Simmer for about 45 minutes, or until the barley is tender and cooked through.
8. 8.
   Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. 9.
   Serve the Ghanaian-inspired barley soup hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Barley grains — Rinse the barley grains thoroughly under cold water to remove any impurities before cooking.
• Ginger — Use fresh ginger for the best flavor. Grate it finely to ensure it blends well into the soup.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier kick, add extra chili powder or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• Feel free to customize the vegetables based on what is available and in season.
• To make it vegetarian, replace the chicken or beef with tofu or tempeh.
• Serve the soup with a side of Ghanaian-style fried plantains for an authentic touch.
• Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated when ready to serve.

Serving advice

Serve the Ghanaian-inspired barley soup hot in individual bowls. Garnish each bowl with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for added freshness and aroma. Accompany the soup with warm crusty bread or Ghanaian-style fried plantains for a complete and satisfying meal.

Presentation advice

Present the Ghanaian-inspired barley soup in rustic ceramic bowls to showcase its homemade charm. Sprinkle some additional chili powder or ground coriander on top for an extra pop of color. Serve with a side of warm bread or plantains on a wooden platter to create an inviting and visually appealing presentation.