Liechtensteiner Gerstensuppe
A hearty and warming barley soup, a traditional autumn classic in Liechtenstein, often prepared with smoked pork loin or bacon. It's known for its simplicity, versatility, and ability to be kept warm for extended periods, making it ideal for gatherings.
🧂 Ingredients
- 200 g Rolled barley
- 1 piece Large onion(finely chopped)
- 3 medium Carrots(diced)
- 1 piece Large leek(white and light green parts only, quartered lengthwise and cut into thin strips)
- 3 l Vegetable bouillon
- 3 tsp Salt(or to taste)
- 300 g Smoked pork loin or bacon (Ripple)(finely diced)
- 200 ml Half cream
- Roasting butter(for sautéing)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Finely chop the onion, dice the carrots, and prepare the leek by quartering it lengthwise and cutting it into thin strips.
- 2
Heat the roasting butter in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, diced carrots, and prepared leek. Sauté for a few minutes until softened.
- 3
Add the rolled barley to the pot and cook briefly, stirring constantly.
- 4
Pour in the vegetable bouillon, season with salt, and bring the soup to a boil.
- 5
Add the diced smoked pork loin or bacon to the pot. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the soup simmer for approximately 2 hours, or until the barley is tender and the flavors have melded.
- 6
Stir in the half cream and season with additional salt if necessary. Heat through gently, but do not boil.
- 7
Ladle the hot soup into bowls and serve.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a vegetarian version, omit the meat and consider adding dried tomatoes, peppers, or dried pears for flavor.
- ✓This soup can be prepared in advance and kept warm for extended periods, making it ideal for serving guests who arrive at different times.
- ✓Ensure the barley is rinsed before adding to the soup.
🔄 Variations
- Some recipes include other root vegetables like parsnips or celery root.
- A touch of fresh parsley can be added as a garnish.