Barley Stew With Saffron And Chickpeas Recipe

This hearty and flavorful Barley Stew, inspired by Canadian chef Ricardo, is a family-friendly recipe that's easily customizable! Enjoy it as a vegetarian delight with vegetable broth or elevate it to a protein-packed meal by adding shrimp at the end. Bursting with saffron's vibrant color and the comforting flavors of barley and chickpeas, this stew is so delicious, even babies will love it! Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner.

Prep Time 15 mins
Cook Time 75 mins
Calories 482.2 kcal
Protein 42g
Rating 5.0 (3 Reviews)
Barley Stew With Saffron And Chickpeas

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Passionate home cook & Forktionary contributor.

Ingredients for Barley Stew With Saffron And Chickpeas

  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • Yellow Bell Pepper
  • Garlic Clove
  • Olive Oil
  • Smoked Paprika
  • A pinch of saffron threads
  • Pearl Barley
  • 1 (15-ounce) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • Chicken Broth
  • Cherry Tomatoes
  • Frozen Peas
  • Salt And Pepper

How to Make Barley Stew With Saffron And Chickpeas

  1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add 1 medium chopped onion, 1 chopped bell pepper, and 2 minced cloves of garlic. Sauté for 5 minutes, until softened.
  2. Stir in 1 teaspoon smoked paprika and a pinch of saffron threads. Cook for 1 minute more, stirring constantly.
  3. Season with 1 teaspoon salt and ½ teaspoon black pepper.
  4. Add 1 cup pearl barley, 1 (15-ounce) can chickpeas (drained and rinsed), and 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for non-vegetarian). Bring to a boil.
  5. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 50 minutes, or until the barley is tender and the broth is absorbed, stirring occasionally.
  6. Stir in 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes (undrained) and 1 cup frozen peas.
  7. Continue to cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the peas are heated through.
  8. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. If adding shrimp, stir in 1 pound of peeled and deveined shrimp during the last 3-4 minutes of cooking.

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

57 g

Sugar

24g

Fat

6g

Carbs

28g