Slow Cooker Bean Kale & Barley Soup

Beans and kale are packed into each bite of this hearty slow-cooker soup. Barley provides a chewy texture, while dried mushrooms lend earthiness and depth. Finishing with acidic lemon juice brightens the flavors.

Ingreadient

  • 1¼ cups dried bean soup mix (see note)
  • ½ cup dried shiitake mushrooms
  • 3 cups water
  • 8 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 cup finely chopped yellow onion
  • 1 cup finely chopped carrot
  • ¾ cup finely chopped scrubbed yukon gold potato
  • ½ cup pearl barley, rinsed
  • ¼ cup white wine
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh garlic
  • 1 tablespoon italian seasoning
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh oregano
  • 1 teaspoon ground pepper
  • ¾ teaspoon crushed red pepper
  • ½ teaspoon salt plus ⅛ teaspoon
  • 1 (4 inch) parmesan rind
  • 4 cups finely chopped curly kale
  • ½ cup chopped fresh herbs, such as flat-leaf parsley or chives, plus whole parsley leaves for garnish
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice