Savory Barley with Meat and Vegetables

Get ready to transform your opinion of barley with this mouthwatering recipe for Savory Barley with Meat and Vegetables. Often overlooked, barley is a highly nutritious grain that, when cooked properly, can be absolutely delicious. Paired with tender chunks of meat, aromatic vegetables, and a touch of spice, this dish becomes a comforting and flavorful meal. Perfect for family dinners or meal prepping, it’s a hearty, wholesome dish that’s both simple to make and incredibly satisfying. The combination of juicy meat, savory barley, and rich flavors will make this dish a new favorite in your kitchen. As they say, the simpler the dish, the tastier it becomes—and this barley recipe is no exception!

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup pearl barley
  • 500 g meat (beef, pork, or lamb)
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 1 carrot, grated or finely chopped
  • 3-4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 0.5 teaspoon hot red pepper (optional, adjust to taste)
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Salt, to taste
  • 2-3 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • Water or broth, as needed for cooking

Steps on How to Do It:

  1. Prepare the Barley:
    • Rinse the pearl barley under cold running water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch and prevents the barley from becoming sticky.
    • Place the barley in a bowl and cover it with cold water. Let it soak for at least 1 hour or overnight. Soaking the barley helps reduce cooking time and makes it softer.
  2. Cook the Meat:
    • Cut the meat into bite-sized cubes. In a large, deep pan or pot, heat 2-3 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium heat.
    • Add the meat to the pan and brown it on all sides. This will take about 5-7 minutes. Make sure the meat develops a nice golden-brown crust, which adds flavor to the dish.
    • Once the meat is browned, remove it from the pan and set it aside.
  3. Sauté the Vegetables:
    • In the same pan, add a bit more oil if needed. Add the chopped onion and grated carrot, and cook for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened and lightly golden.
    • Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  4. Combine Meat, Vegetables, and Barley:
    • Return the browned meat to the pan with the sautéed vegetables.
    • Stir in 1 tablespoon of tomato paste and mix it with the meat and vegetables until everything is coated.
    • Drain the soaked barley and add it to the pan. Stir everything together to combine.
  5. Add Spices and Liquid:
    • Season the mixture with 0.5 teaspoon of hot red pepper (optional), black pepper, and salt to taste.
    • Pour in enough water or broth to cover the barley and meat completely. Stir well to make sure all ingredients are evenly distributed.
    • Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pan with a lid, and let it simmer gently for about 40-50 minutes, or until the barley is fully cooked and tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and add more liquid if needed.
  6. Finish and Serve:
    • Once the barley is tender and the liquid has mostly been absorbed, check the seasoning and adjust salt and pepper if necessary.
    • Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
  7. Serve:
    • Serve the savory barley with meat hot, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or dill, if desired. Enjoy this hearty and comforting dish as a complete meal on its own, or pair it with a simple side salad or pickles.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):

  • Calories: 400 kcal
  • Protein: 25 g
  • Fat: 15 g
  • Carbohydrates: 45 g
  • Fiber: 6 g
  • Sodium: 300 mg
  • Sugars: 4 g

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portions used.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

  1. Can I use a different type of meat?
    • Yes, you can use beef, pork, or lamb for this recipe. You can also use chicken or turkey for a lighter version of the dish. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the type of meat.
  2. What if I don’t have pearl barley?
    • If you don’t have pearl barley, you can substitute it with other grains like farro, bulgur, or rice. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary based on the grain you choose.
  3. Can I make this dish in a slow cooker?
    • Absolutely! After browning the meat and sautéing the vegetables, transfer everything to a slow cooker. Add the soaked barley and liquid, then cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the barley is tender.
  4. How do I store leftovers?
    • Leftover barley with meat can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave.
  5. Can I freeze this dish?
    • Yes, this dish freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm on the stovetop or microwave.

Tips on How to Make It:

  • Soak the Barley: Soaking the barley before cooking helps reduce the cooking time and ensures that the barley cooks evenly. You can soak it for 1 hour or overnight, depending on your schedule.
  • Add Broth for Extra Flavor: If you want to add more depth of flavor to the dish, use beef or vegetable broth instead of water. This will make the dish richer and more flavorful.
  • Adjust the Spice Level: If you’re not a fan of spicy food, you can omit or reduce the amount of hot red pepper. Alternatively, you can add other spices like paprika or cumin for a different flavor profile.
  • Check the Liquid: Barley absorbs a lot of liquid as it cooks, so make sure to check the dish occasionally and add more water or broth if needed to prevent it from drying out.

Storage Tips:

  • Refrigerating Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to prevent the barley from drying out.
  • Freezing: To freeze, let the dish cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
  • Reheating: Reheat the dish in a skillet or microwave, adding a bit of water or broth to keep the barley moist.

Conclusion:

This Savory Barley with Meat and Vegetables is a simple yet incredibly flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The tender, chewy barley paired with juicy, well-seasoned meat and vegetables creates a wholesome and satisfying meal that’s sure to please. Not only is this dish easy to prepare, but it’s also packed with nutrients, making it a great choice for a hearty, nutritious dinner. Whether you’re new to cooking with barley or looking to try something different, this recipe will surprise you with its rich flavors and comforting textures.

Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the delicious combination of meat, barley, and vegetables in every bite. Happy cooking!