Healthy Crockpot Mushroom Barley Stew

Name: Healthy Crockpot Mushroom Barley Stew
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup pearl barley; 2 cups sliced mushrooms (cremini, shiitake, button); 1 medium onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 carrots, sliced; 2 celery stalks, chopped; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Natural Ideas

I love cozy meals, and there's something incredibly satisfying about a hearty, homemade stew. This Healthy Crockpot Mushroom Barley Stew has become a staple in my kitchen. It's packed with earthy mushrooms and nutty barley, making it rich in flavors and nutrients. The beauty of this dish is its convenience—just toss everything into the crockpot and let the magic happen. The slow cooking really enhances the flavors, resulting in a warm and comforting bowl that’s perfect for any day of the week.

Created by

Kendra Lawson

Last updated on 2026-01-06T13:41:35.060Z

When I first experimented with this stew, I was amazed at how the ingredients meld together during the slow cooking process. The mushrooms release a deep, hearty flavor, while the barley adds a lovely texture that makes each spoonful satisfying. I recommend using a mix of mushrooms—cremini, shiitake, and even some button mushrooms—for a more complex flavor.

One tip I've learned is to sauté the onions and garlic before adding them to the crockpot. This simple step really boosts their flavor and gives the stew a rich, aromatic base. Trust me; the extra few minutes are worth it!

Why You'll Love This Stew
Nutritious ingredients packed with fiber and protein
A one-pot dish that does all the work for you
Versatile—easily adaptable with whatever veggies you have

Understanding Barley and Mushrooms

Pearl barley is the star of this stew, providing a chewy texture and nutty flavor. Its high fiber content helps keep you full, making it a perfect base for a hearty meal. While it cooks, barley absorbs the flavors of the broth and seasonings, becoming tender yet maintaining a slight bite. If you're looking for a quicker alternative, you could try using quick-cooking barley, though the texture will differ slightly.

Mushrooms, whether you choose cremini, shiitake, or button varieties, bring an umami depth to this dish. They release moisture as they cook, enriching the broth and creating a savory base. When selecting mushrooms, look for ones that are firm and unblemished. For a fun twist, experiment with dry mushrooms—just soak them in warm water for 30 minutes before adding them to the stew.

Cooking Technique Tips

The slow cooker is essential for developing the flavors of this stew. Cooking on low for 6 hours allows the barley to absorb the vegetable broth fully while letting the herbs infuse their aromas. If you're pressed for time, you can set it on high for 4 hours, but keep an eye on the barley to ensure it doesn’t overcook. It should be tender but not mushy, providing that satisfying al dente bite.

Make sure to taste the stew towards the end of the cooking time. The seasoning can be adjusted after the flavors meld together beautifully. If it feels too bland, a splash of soy sauce or vinegar can brighten it up considerably. Remember that salt will enhance the overall taste, so season in moderation to avoid overpowering the other flavors.

Ingredients for Healthy Crockpot Mushroom Barley Stew

Main Ingredients

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

Enjoy your hearty meal!

Cooking Steps

Prepare the Ingredients

Start by rinsing the barley under cold water. Then, dice the onion, mince the garlic, and slice the mushrooms, carrots, and celery.

Combine in the Crockpot

In your crockpot, combine the rinsed barley, sliced mushrooms, diced onion, minced garlic, carrots, and celery. Add the vegetable broth and sprinkle in the dried thyme and oregano.

Cook

Cover the crockpot and set it to low. Let it cook for 6 hours or high for 4 hours until the barley is tender and the vegetables are soft.

Season and Serve

Once done, taste and add salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot and enjoy your warm stew!

Enjoy your cozy, comforting stew!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, add a splash of soy sauce or a few drops of liquid smoke before serving. You can also toss in some dark leafy greens like spinach or kale just before the stew finishes cooking for added nutrition.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This stew is perfect for meal prep! It can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The flavors continue to improve as it sits, making leftovers even more delicious. If you want to make it ahead of time, consider cooking a double batch. Just freeze half in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months—thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

When reheating, do so gently on the stove or in the microwave. If the stew appears too thick after refrigerating or freezing, a splash of vegetable broth can help bring it back to the desired consistency. Stir well while reheating to ensure even heat distribution, which prevents any sections from becoming too hot and overcooked.

Serving Suggestions

Serving this stew with crusty bread or a fresh salad complements its hearty nature nicely. A bit of grated Parmesan or a dollop of yogurt on top can add a creamy element, enhancing the overall dish. Pair it with a simple side like steamed vegetables to round out your meal with more nutrients and color.

For a variation, consider adding greens such as kale or spinach during the last 30 minutes of cooking, which will wilt beautifully and add an additional layer of flavor. You can also adjust the broth to give it a more robust flavor by using mushroom broth instead of vegetable broth, enhancing the earthy profile of this dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! You can customize the stew with any veggies you like such as potatoes, green beans, or bell peppers.

→ How long will leftovers last?

Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 2 months.

→ Is this stew vegan?

Yes, it is entirely plant-based, using vegetable broth and no animal products.

→ Can I make it in a pressure cooker?

Yes, just reduce the cooking time to about 30 minutes on high pressure, and allow for natural release.