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

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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

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

0 g

Sugar

20g

Fat

4g

Carbs

20g