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Oma's Chicken Barley Soup (Hühner-Graupensuppe)

This chicken barley soup is one of those simple, hearty meals that fills the kitchen with such good smells and makes everyone glad to come to the table.

Ingredients:

• 1 - 2 tablespoons (15 - 30 milliliters) oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 1 pound (454 grams) skinless boneless chicken breast, cubed
• ½ pound (227 grams) lean bacon, diced
• 8 ounces (227 grams) pearl barley
• 10 cups (2.4 liters) chicken broth
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 1 celery rib, diced
• 1 garlic clove, crushed
• 1 leek, sliced
• curry powder, to taste
• 1 pinch ground caraway seeds (optional)
• salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat the oil in a large pot. Add the onions and cook until translucent. Add the chicken and bacon and continue cooking for about 5 minutes.
2. Add the barley and broth. Stir and bring to a boil.
3. Add the carrots and celery. Bring to a boil again. Reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for about 20 minutes.
4. Add the garlic and leeks. Simmer another 20 minutes until everything is tender. The barley should still have a bit of a bite.
5. Season with curry powder, caraway, salt, and pepper. Serve.

Notes/Hints:

• Instead of chicken, use  pork or beef. 

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Unless otherwise noted recipe, images and content © Just like Oma | www.quick-german-recipes.com

Recipe updated on March 26, 2026