Barley Pilaf

Name: Barley Pilaf
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Canadian
Ingredients: 1 cup pearl barley (rinsed); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 medium onion (finely chopped); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 3 cups chicken or vegetable broth (low-sodium); 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste); 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground); 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

50 min 4 servings Easy

All Recipes

Barley Pilaf

A deliciously nutty barley pilaf that's perfect as a nutritious side dish or a satisfying main course.

Prep

10 min

Cook

40 min

Total

50 min

Servings

Difficulty

Easy

Barley pilaf is a wholesome and hearty dish that brings a nutty flavour and chewy texture to your table. Often overshadowed by its more popular cousin, rice pilaf, barley pilaf offers a unique twist that is equally delightful and satisfying. This dish is versatile and can be served as an accompaniment to your favourite protein or enjoyed as a standalone meal. The slow-cooked nature of barley allows it to absorb the rich flavours of broth and seasonings, making each bite a burst of umami goodness.

Instructions

Prepare the ingredients

Rinse the barley under cold running water. Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic cloves.

Pro tip: Rinsing the barley removes excess starch and prevents clumping.

Heat the oil

In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat until shimmering.

Pro tip: Use a heavy-bottomed saucepan to prevent burning.

Sauté the aromatics

Add the chopped onion and garlic to the saucepan. Sauté until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.

Pro tip: Stir occasionally to prevent the garlic from burning.

Toast the barley

Add the rinsed barley to the pan. Stir well to coat the grains with oil and toast them for 2-3 minutes until they are lightly golden.

Pro tip: Toasting enhances the nutty flavour of the barley.

Add the broth

Pour in the broth, bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the saucepan and let it simmer gently for about 30-35 minutes or until the barley is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.

Season and serve

Stir in salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Pro tip: Fluff the barley with a fork before serving to separate the grains.

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Tips & Tricks

Use pearl barley for quicker cooking.
Toast the barley for enhanced flavour.
Adjust seasoning to taste after cooking.
Substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is orge?

Orge is the French word for barley, a nutritious grain commonly used in soups, salads, and pilafs.

How long does barley pilaf take to cook?

Barley pilaf takes about 40 minutes to cook, including preparation and simmering time.

Can I make barley pilaf vegetarian?

Yes, simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to make it vegetarian.

What can I serve with barley pilaf?

Barley pilaf pairs well with roasted meats, grilled vegetables, or as a standalone vegetarian meal.

How do I store leftover barley pilaf?

Store leftover barley pilaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.

Serving Suggestions

Barley pilaf can be served alongside roasted meats or grilled vegetables for a balanced meal. It pairs wonderfully with a crisp white wine or a refreshing iced tea. Make-ahead by preparing the barley in advance and storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat with a splash of broth to maintain its moisture.