Barley Mushroom Risotto Cozy (Printable Version)
Nutty barley and mushrooms baked together with herbs and Parmesan for a hearty, warming dish.
# Ingredient List:
→ Grains
01 - 1 cup pearl barley, rinsed
→ Vegetables & Mushrooms
02 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
03 - 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
04 - 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
05 - 2 garlic cloves, minced
06 - 14 oz cremini or button mushrooms, sliced
07 - 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves or 1 teaspoon dried thyme
08 - 1 cup frozen peas (optional)
→ Liquids
09 - 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth, warmed
10 - 1/2 cup dry white wine
→ Cheese & Finish
11 - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese plus extra for serving
12 - 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
13 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
# How to Make It:
01 - Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
02 - Heat olive oil and butter in a large, oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, around 5 minutes.
03 - Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. Then add the sliced mushrooms and thyme leaves. Sauté until mushrooms are golden and have released their juices, about 8 minutes.
04 - Stir in the rinsed pearl barley and coat it well for 2 minutes. Pour in the white wine and cook until nearly evaporated, approximately 2 minutes.
05 - Add the warmed vegetable broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper according to taste.
06 - Cover the skillet or Dutch oven tightly with its lid or foil and transfer to the preheated oven. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the barley is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
07 - Remove from the oven and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, frozen peas if using, and chopped parsley. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
08 - Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese and parsley as desired.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- This risotto uses pearl barley, which adds a wonderful chew and nutty flavor that feels like a little secret to make it healthier and heartier.
- Finishing it in the oven allows the flavors to meld perfectly while freeing you from constant stirring, making it a stress-free dinner winner.
02 -
- Don’t rush the oven baking step—it’s key for the perfect creamy texture without constant stirring.
- Using pearl barley instead of rice changes the texture dramatically and delivers such a satisfying chew that surprises everyone.
03 -
- Always use a good quality vegetable broth for the best flavor—it’s the backbone of the dish.
- Stirring the risotto halfway through baking helps it cook evenly and prevents sticking without losing the ease of oven finishing.