The aroma of this soup simmering on the stove provides a soothing finish to the day.

In this menu you will find true comfort. There is nothing else like the aroma of freshly baked bread or soup simmering on the stove to soothe our souls after a busy week.

Your Menu: Serves 8

Mushroom-Barley Soup
Hearty Whole-Grain Bread

• Tossed green salad with your favorite dressing
• Ice cream with assorted toppers

Test Kitchen Tips:

When selecting fresh mushrooms, look for mushrooms with a clean, smooth appearance, free from major blemishes. To clean fresh mushrooms, remove any dirt by wiping with a damp paper towel or mushroom brush. For a more thorough cleaning, swish very briefly in water, then pat dry with paper towels. Do not allow fresh mushrooms to soak in water.

Dried mushrooms are typically found in the produce section of your supermarket. Varieties such as chanterelle, shiitake or porcini would work well in this soup.

Cracked wheat cereal may also be labeled cracked wheat. It is wheat that has been broken (or cracked) into smaller fragments. Look for it in the cereal or grain section of your supermarket or health food store.

Finish this warming meal with your favorite ice cream topped with assorted toppers that will please everyone.

If you don't have 8 for dinner, store remaining soup in a covered container in the refrigerator up to 3 days. Reheat in a saucepan before serving. Wrap and store leftover bread at room temperature up to 3 days or in the freezer for longer storage. Thaw at room temperature before slicing.

Shopping List for: Soup Menu

• 1 package dried mushrooms
• 8 ounces fresh mushrooms
• 1 onion
• 1 bunch celery
• 1 pound carrots
• 1 jar minced garlic
• 8 ounces cooked beef from deli
• 1 package quick-cooking barley
• 1 jar instant beef bouillon granules
• 1 small bunch fresh parsley
• 1 bag torn mixed greens
• Your favorite salad toppers
• Assorted salad dressing
• 1/2 gallon favorite ice cream
• Desired ice cream toppers

Pantry Items:

• All-purpose flour

Shopping List for: Bread

• 1 package cracked wheat cereal
• 1 package bread flour
• 2 packages active dry yeast
• 1 package dark rye flour
• 1 dozen eggs

Pantry Items:

• Salt
• Shortening to grease baking sheet

Equipment Needed:

For Soup:

• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cutting board and knife
• Kitchen scissors
• Small bowl
• Strainer
• Large Dutch oven or kettle
• Wooden spoon
• Ice cream scoop

For Bread:

• Measuring cups and spoons
• Strainer
• 2 large mixing bowls
• Instant-read thermometer
• Electric mixer
• Rubber spatula
• Wooden spoon
• Pastry cloth
• Baking sheet
• Sharp knife
• Pastry brush
• Wire cooling racks

Missing an item in our equipment list?

Related Links: