Barley Mushroom Pilaf Recipe

This hearty barley mushroom pilaf is incredibly versatile – serve it as a satisfying main course for a vegetarian dinner or a delectable side dish alongside your favorite protein. Earthy porcini and shiitake mushrooms dance with tender barley in a rich marsala wine sauce, creating a symphony of flavors that will impress your family and friends. Prepare this delicious dish in just 25 minutes!

Prep Time 5 mins
Cook Time 25 mins
Calories 485.5 kcal
Protein 34g
Rating 5.0 (3 Reviews)
Barley Mushroom Pilaf

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Passionate home cook & Forktionary contributor.

Ingredients for Barley Mushroom Pilaf

  • 2 cups chicken stock (or vegetable broth for vegetarian option)
  • Dried Porcini Mushrooms
  • 1 cup pearl barley
  • Olive Oil
  • Shiitake Mushroom Caps
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 8 ounces button mushrooms, halved
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • Dried Rosemary
  • Dry Marsala
  • Sherry Wine Vinegar

How to Make Barley Mushroom Pilaf

  1. In a medium saucepan, combine 2 cups of chicken stock (or vegetable broth) and 1/4 cup dried porcini mushrooms. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes to rehydrate the mushrooms.
  2. Add 1 cup of pearl barley to the saucepan. Stir well to combine. Bring back to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 12 minutes, or until the barley is tender.
  3. Meanwhile, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  4. Add 8 ounces of sliced shiitake mushrooms, 1 medium chopped onion, and 8 ounces of halved button mushrooms. Season with 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, and 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh rosemary.
  5. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until the mushrooms are softened and lightly browned.
  6. Pour in 1/2 cup of marsala wine and cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing the alcohol to cook off.
  7. Stir in the cooked barley mixture and 1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar. Cook for another 2 minutes, or until well combined and heated through.
  8. Serve hot as a main course or a delicious side dish. Garnish with extra rosemary, if desired.

Chef's Tip for Extra Flavor

Chef's secret: layers of flavor make a dish truly memorable! Consider what a little extra something could bring – perhaps a touch of acidity like a good vinegar or citrus zest, a hint of smokiness from paprika, a bit of umami from mushrooms or soy sauce, or a sprinkle of toasted nuts for texture. Experiment and taste as you go!

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

11 g

Sugar

48g

Fat

9g

Carbs

27g