Barley With Shiitakes And Spinach Recipe

This quick and easy barley recipe bursts with earthy shiitake mushrooms and vibrant spinach. Perfect as a satisfying side dish or a hearty vegetarian entrée, served alongside your favorite protein like beef or chicken for a complete and appetizing meal. Ready in just 30 minutes!

Prep Time 5 mins
Cook Time 30 mins
Calories 248.4 kcal
Protein 21g
Rating 5.0 (1 Reviews)
Barley With Shiitakes And Spinach 34

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Passionate home cook & Forktionary contributor.

Ingredients for Barley With Shiitakes And Spinach

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • Dried Rosemary
  • Shiitake Mushroom Caps
  • Quick Cooking Barley
  • 1/3 cup water
  • Beef Consomme
  • 5 ounces fresh spinach, roughly chopped
  • Fresh Parmesan Cheese
  • Fresh Ground Black Pepper

How to Make Barley With Shiitakes And Spinach

  1. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Add 1 medium chopped onion, 1 teaspoon dried rosemary (or 1 tablespoon fresh, chopped), and 2 minced cloves of garlic.
  3. Sauté for 3 minutes, or until the onion is tender and translucent.
  4. Add 8 ounces of sliced shiitake mushrooms and sauté for 6 minutes, or until tender and slightly browned.
  5. Stir in 1 cup of pearl barley, 1/3 cup of water, and 1 cup of beef or vegetable consommé.
  6. Bring the mixture to a boil.
  7. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the barley is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  8. Stir in 5 ounces of roughly chopped fresh spinach and 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese.
  9. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the spinach wilts and is tender, stirring frequently.
  10. Season generously with freshly ground black pepper to taste. Serve immediately as a side dish or a hearty vegetarian entree.

Chef's Tip for Extra Flavor

Elevate your dish with simple flavor boosters! A final flourish of freshly chopped herbs can add incredible brightness, while a squeeze of lemon or lime juice right before serving can awaken all the flavors. Don't underestimate a sprinkle of quality finishing salt or a drizzle of good olive oil to make your creation shine.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

13 g

Sugar

37g

Fat

4g

Carbs

16g