Comforting Vegan Barley and Potato Stew

This hearty and wholesome vegan barley and potato stew is a simple yet satisfying recipe, perfect for staying healthy and energized. Its budget-friendly nature and substantial yield make it ideal for meal prepping; enjoy it throughout the week or freeze portions for future convenience. This recipe easily feeds four. To begin, chop celery, carrots, and onion into large pieces. Sauté these vegetables in a generous amount of olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat for several minutes. Reduce the heat to low, adding approximately half the vegetable broth. Cover and simmer for about twenty minutes. Add the remaining broth, bring back to a boil, and then introduce peeled and roughly chopped potatoes. Continue simmering for ten minutes before stirring in thoroughly rinsed barley. Season generously with pepper and salt to taste, incorporating bay leaves and rosemary sprigs. Simmer uncovered for another fifteen minutes, stirring occasionally. Before serving piping hot, remove the rosemary and bay leaves. Garnish each bowl with toasted bread slices or croutons for an added textural delight.