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: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups mushrooms, sliced (cremini and shiitake); 1 cup pearl barley; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 carrots, chopped; 2 stalks celery, chopped; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 6 cups vegetable broth; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon dried rosemary; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Simple Inspiration

I love coming home to the comforting aroma of a hearty stew, especially on crisp evenings. This Healthy Crockpot Mushroom Barley Stew is my go-to recipe when I want something nutritious and satisfying without spending all day in the kitchen. With a blend of earthy mushrooms, wholesome barley, and vibrant vegetables, this dish is not only delicious but also packs a nutritious punch. I appreciate how easy it is to prepare—all I need to do is toss the ingredients into my crockpot and let it do the magic while I attend to other things!

Created by

Nell Abernathy

Last updated on 2026-01-06T11:21:34.903Z

Every time I make this stew, I am reminded of how versatile and nourishing mushrooms can be. I experimented with different types of mushrooms, and I found that using a mix of cremini and shiitake gives the stew a depth of flavor that is simply irresistible. The barley adds a chewy texture that complements the creaminess of the broth.

One of my favorite parts about this recipe is the simplicity of preparation. I just chop the veggies and add everything to the crockpot. The long cooking time allows the flavors to meld beautifully, but I sometimes add a splash of balsamic vinegar right before serving for an extra kick of flavor!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Nutritious blend of veggies and whole grains
Minimal preparation time with maximum flavor
Comforting and hearty, perfect for any season

      

The Role of Barley in the Stew

Pearl barley is the star of this stew, providing not only a comforting texture but also a heartiness that makes each bowl satisfying. Its chewy consistency absorbs the flavors of the broth beautifully. When cooked in the crockpot for about four hours, barley swells and softens, becoming a wonderful base that complements the mushrooms and vegetables. If you're looking to enhance the nutritional profile, consider substituting with farro or quinoa, which offer different flavors while maintaining that wholesome essence.

Cooking barley in a crockpot allows for an even infusion of flavors over time. As the stew simmers, the barley will release starches, creating a rich and velvety broth. Keep an eye on the cooking time as overcooking can lead to a mushy texture. If you prefer a firmer bite, you can start checking for doneness at the three-hour mark. A perfect barley in this stew is tender yet retains a slight chew, enhancing the overall mouthfeel.

Mushroom Varieties and Their Impact

Using a blend of cremini and shiitake mushrooms gives this stew a layered depth of flavor. Cremini mushrooms offer a mild, almost nutty taste, while shiitake mushrooms introduce an earthy punch that's unmistakable. If you're unable to find shiitake, feel free to swap in button mushrooms or even dried mushrooms, which can be rehydrated in warm water prior to adding to the crockpot. Each variety brings its own unique character, so don’t hesitate to experiment!

The cooking process allows the mushrooms to release their moisture, enriching the broth and enhancing its umami profile. For maximum flavor, make sure to sauté your fresh mushrooms quickly in a pan if you're looking for a more pronounced taste, although it's not necessary if you're crunched for time. Serving this stew with some fresh herbs or a sprinkle of parmesan can elevate the dish, bringing out the umami richness that mushrooms provide.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Healthy Crockpot Mushroom Barley Stew

Main Ingredients

2 cups mushrooms, sliced (cremini and shiitake)
1 cup pearl barley
1 medium onion, diced
2 carrots, chopped
2 stalks celery, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
6 cups vegetable broth
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
Salt and pepper to taste

Combine all the ingredients in the crockpot for a hearty meal.

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

Chop the onions, carrots, celery, and garlic. Slice the mushrooms and set aside.

Assemble in the Crockpot

Add all the prepared ingredients, barley, herbs, salt, pepper, and vegetable broth to the crockpot.

Cook

Set the crockpot to low and cook for about 4 hours or until the barley is tender.

Serve

Taste and adjust seasoning, then ladle into bowls and enjoy warm.

Ideal for meal prep, leftovers taste even better!

Pro Tips

For added protein, consider stirring in some cooked lentils or chickpeas before serving. You can also customize the vegetables based on what you have on hand.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This stew is an excellent candidate for meal prep and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to five days. Allow the stew to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. If you want to make it even further in advance, consider freezing portions in freezer-safe bags. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed to loosen the texture.

If you find that the stew thickens too much after refrigeration or freezing, it can easily be adjusted. Just add a little vegetable broth or water when reheating; this will revive its consistency and help the stew remain smooth and flavorful.

Serving Suggestions

This Healthy Crockpot Mushroom Barley Stew pairs wonderfully with crusty whole-grain bread or a simple side salad, making it a complete meal. For a bit of added freshness, top each bowl with a dollop of yogurt or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives. This not only enhances the flavor but also adds a pop of color to your presentation.

For those looking to add protein, consider serving the stew alongside grilled chicken or a side of roasted chickpeas. Both options will complement the earthy flavors without overpowering the stew itself, giving you a balanced and nutritious meal perfect for any time of the day.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen vegetables in this recipe?

Yes, frozen vegetables can substitute fresh ones. Just add them directly to the crockpot.

→ How long will leftovers last?

Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 5 days.

→ Can I make this stew vegan?

Absolutely! Just ensure that your vegetable broth is vegan-friendly.

→ What can I serve with this stew?

A slice of crusty bread or a simple salad pairs wonderfully with this stew.