Hearty, comforting, and vibrantly herby, Farro Soup is one of those culinary gems you’ll find yourself craving again and again. This bowl of goodness strikes a perfect balance between earthy farro, a rainbow of fresh vegetables, and deeply aromatic flavors thanks to a handful of fresh herbs and fragrant lemongrass. Whether you’re searching for a nourishing weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch to brighten a gray day, Farro Soup delivers a cozy meal that tastes like it’s made with heart – and you’ll want to savor every spoonful.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Farro Soup is just how approachable its ingredients are, yet each one brings undeniable character to the table. Let’s take a closer look at what goes into this delicious soup and why you’ll want every single one.

Extra virgin olive oil: A generous pour adds silkiness and rich undertones while helping to build flavor right from the start.
Red onion: A small, diced onion provides subtle sweetness and aromatic depth as the soup base.
Carrots: These bring cheerful color and gentle, natural sweetness once they’ve softened in the soup.
White button or baby bella mushrooms: Sliced thin, they soak up all the flavors and add earthy savoriness with every bite.
Farro: The heart and soul of this soup, farro transforms into tender, nutty morsels that make each bowl feel extra satisfying.
Fresh parsley: Chopped parsley brightens the soup and gives it a garden-fresh finish.
Fresh cilantro: Cilantro adds a lively, citrusy boost, but you can use mint if you’re not a fan.
Basil leaves: Just a tablespoon of fresh basil brings mellow, sweet-green aroma.
Lemongrass (fresh or paste): Don’t skip this! Lemongrass brings a unique, delicate citrus flavor that sets Farro Soup apart.
Ginger: Fresh ginger gives a warm, subtly spicy undertone that makes the broth irresistible.
Garlic: Sparks up the flavors with fragrant, pungent notes that meld beautifully with the herbs.
Smoked paprika: Adds deep color and a whisper of smokiness without overwhelming the other ingredients.
Water or low-sodium vegetable broth: Eight cups ensure every bite is full of flavor and keeps the soup wonderfully brothy.
Kosher salt and pepper: Classic seasoning duo to make every ingredient shine; start light and adjust as you taste.
Lemon juice (optional): A squeeze at the finish lifts and brightens every spoonful.
Extra chopped herbs for serving (optional): Bring even more freshness and color when sprinkled on top right before serving.

How to Make Farro Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Base

Begin by heating your olive oil in a large soup pot over medium-high heat. Add in your onion, sliced mushrooms, a pinch of salt, and a grind or two of black pepper. Let everything cook together, stirring occasionally, just until the onions go translucent and those mushrooms have given up their moisture and darkened – this builds a flavorful foundation for your Farro Soup.

Step 2: Layer in Aromatics

Now, time to get your kitchen smelling amazing! Stir in the lemongrass, minced garlic, grated or finely chopped ginger, diced carrots, and smoked paprika. Cook for just about 30 seconds; you’re waking up all their bright, fragrant flavors, not trying to brown them.

Step 3: Add Farro and Herbs

Pour in the farro, fresh cilantro, parsley, and basil. Give things a gentle stir just to coat the grains and herbs with the aromatic base. This quick step ensures every bit of farro is infused with color and herbal aroma from the very start.

Step 4: Simmer the Soup

Add all eight cups of water or vegetable broth and bring everything to a simmer. Lower the heat to medium-low, put a lid on your pot, and let the soup bubble away gently for about 30 minutes, until the carrots are tender and the farro has puffed up and doubled in size. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed!

Step 5: Finish with Lemon and Fresh Herbs

Right before serving, stir in a little lemon juice if you like things bright and zesty, and shower the finished soup with handfuls of extra fresh parsley, cilantro, and basil. This final touch wakes everything up and layers even more freshness onto your Farro Soup.

How to Serve Farro Soup

Garnishes

A fresh sprinkle of herbs like chopped parsley, cilantro, or basil right before serving makes each bowl look as lively as it tastes. If you love a spicy kick, toss on some dried chili flakes or thin slices of fresh jalapeño. And don’t forget that final squeeze of lemon juice for unbeatable brightness!

Side Dishes

Farro Soup is hearty enough to stand alone, but it loves company. Pair your soup with a thick slice of crusty bread for dunking or a simple green salad tossed in a zippy vinaigrette. For a heartier meal, serve alongside roasted vegetables or a plate of olives and cheese for a Mediterranean-inspired spread.

Creative Ways to Present

Ladle Farro Soup into wide, shallow bowls for a rustic feel, or use small mugs for a cute lunch or potluck idea. If you’re looking to impress, add a swirl of herb oil or a dollop of plant-based yogurt on top. Colorful edible flowers or microgreens can make your soup the star at any gathering.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Farro Soup keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. The flavors actually deepen and meld overnight, so don’t be surprised if tomorrow’s bowl tastes even more delicious!

Freezing

To freeze, let your Farro Soup cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers. Leave a little space at the top for expansion and freeze for up to three months. Note that the farro will continue to absorb broth over time, so when reheating, you may want to add a splash of water or broth to loosen things up.

Reheating

To reheat, simply transfer your desired amount to a saucepan and warm gently over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup has thickened in storage, just add a bit more broth or water until it reaches your preferred texture. Adjust seasoning and enjoy!

FAQs

Can I use a different grain instead of farro?

Absolutely! While farro is the star here, you can substitute with barley, brown rice, or even quinoa. Just keep in mind that the cooking time and texture will vary slightly, so keep an eye on your pot and adjust as needed.

Is Farro Soup gluten free?

No, farro is a type of wheat and does contain gluten. If you’re looking for a gluten free option, try swapping the farro for brown rice or a blend of lentils and rice for similar heartiness.

What if I can’t find fresh lemongrass?

No problem! Lemongrass paste from a tube works great and is often available in the produce section of most grocery stores. In a pinch, you can skip it altogether or add a bit of lemon zest for a different, but still bright, citrus note.

How can I make Farro Soup spicy?

If you like heat, simply garnish individual bowls with red chili flakes, or add a finely chopped fresh chili to the onions and mushrooms during that first sauté stage. You can tailor the spice level to suit everyone’s preferences.

Can I add protein to this soup?

Certainly! Farro Soup is totally flexible. Stir in cooked chickpeas or white beans for a plant-based protein boost, or add shredded rotisserie chicken for a classic touch. The flavors of the soup mingle beautifully with almost any protein you love.

Final Thoughts

Now that you’ve seen how simple and soul-warming Farro Soup can be, I hope you’ll treat yourself (and lucky friends or family!) to a homemade pot soon. There’s just something about this blend of wholesome grains, herbs, and gentle spice that soothes and satisfies. Trust me, your kitchen is about to smell amazing!