Barley Risotto Recipe

This hearty and flavorful barley risotto is a fantastic way to use up leftover roasted vegetables! A delicious and healthy alternative to traditional rice risotto, perfect alongside a roast chicken or as a satisfying vegetarian main course. Easily doubled for a crowd, this recipe is packed with flavor and sure to become a weeknight favorite. #barleyrisotto #vegetarianrecipe #roastedvegetables #easyrecipe #comfortfood

Prep Time 15 mins
Cook Time 55 mins
Calories 339.4 kcal
Protein 23g
Rating 4.5 (28 Reviews)
Barley Risotto 67

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Passionate home cook & Forktionary contributor.

Ingredients for Barley Risotto

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • Sliced Mushrooms
  • 1 cup pearl barley
  • 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional)
  • Vegetable Stock
  • Diced Tomato
  • 1/2 cup frozen peas
  • Salt And Pepper
  • Romano Cheese

How to Make Barley Risotto

  1. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Sauté 1 medium onion, chopped, and 2 cloves garlic, minced, until softened (about 5 minutes).
  2. Add 1 cup of your favorite roasted vegetables (e.g., mushrooms, bell peppers, zucchini), chopped, and cook until lightly browned (about 5-7 minutes).
  3. Stir in 1 cup pearl barley and cook for 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until lightly toasted.
  4. Pour in 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional) and let it evaporate slightly. Add 3 cups of hot vegetable broth, 1 (14.5 ounce) can of diced tomatoes (undrained), 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper.
  5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 25 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add more broth if needed to maintain a creamy consistency.
  6. Stir in 1/2 cup frozen peas and simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the barley is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Stir in 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (or other hard cheese), and season with additional salt and pepper to taste.

Chef's Tip for Extra Flavor

Want to unlock deeper, more complex flavors? Try toasting your whole spices before grinding them, or blooming ground spices in a little warm oil to enhance their aroma. Deglazing your pan with a bit of stock, wine, or even water after browning ingredients can capture those tasty caramelized bits, adding richness to your dish.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

0 g

Sugar

20g

Fat

4g

Carbs

20g