Smoky bean and barley stew with greens

This delicious and nourishing meal is perfect for a cold winter’s day. Ideal for 4-6 people, this recipe takes just 15 minutes to prepare and 45 minutes to cook.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large brown onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 carrot and 1 celery stalk, diced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 cup pearl barley, rinsed
- 400 grams (1 tin) crushed tomatoes
- 2 litres low-sodium vegetable stock
- 400 grams (1 tin) cannellini beans, drained
- 400 grams (1 tin) kidney beans, drained
- 1 bunch kale or silverbeet, stems removed, shredded
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Sea salt and black pepper
- Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté onion, carrot, and celery for 6–7 minutes until soft. Add garlic; cook 1 minute.
- Stir in smoked paprika and cumin for 30 seconds.
- Add barley, tomatoes, and stock. Bring to a boil, then simmer 30 minutes.
- Add beans; simmer 10 minutes more, adding water if needed.
- Stir in greens until wilted, finish with lemon juice, season, and serve.
Hopewood tip: For extra depth, add a chopped roasted capsicum or a splash of balsamic in step 5.

