Chickpea and Pearl Barley Stew (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

01 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
02 - 1 medium carrot, diced
03 - 3 celery stalks, diced
04 - 1 medium leek, white and light green parts only, sliced
05 - 2 large garlic cloves, finely chopped
06 - 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, finely chopped
07 - 1 1/2 cups (325 g) pearl barley, rinsed
08 - 6 cups (1.5 liters) vegetable stock
09 - 2 x 14 oz (400 g) cans chickpeas, drained and rinsed
10 - Juice of 1 small lemon
11 - 1 small bunch (30 g) fresh dill, chopped
12 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

# Instructions:

01 - Heat the olive oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot such as a Dutch oven, and cook the carrot and celery for 3-4 minutes over medium heat until slightly softened.
02 - Add the sliced leek and continue to cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
03 - Stir in the garlic and fresh thyme and cook for another minute.
04 - Add the pearl barley and vegetable stock, stir to combine, then bring to a boil.
05 - Lower the heat, cover the pot with a lid and simmer for 20 minutes or until the pearl barley is al dente.
06 - Stir in the chickpeas and simmer for another 5-10 minutes or until the pearl barley is cooked to your liking.
07 - Add the lemon juice and fresh dill and stir to combine.
08 - Season to taste and serve with extra chopped dill and lemon juice if you like.

# Notes:

01 - This hearty stew is packed with fiber and nutrients, making it a satisfying meal.