Pearl barley porridge with porcini mushrooms

6 servings

60 minutes

Barley porridge with white mushrooms is an exquisite dish of European cuisine that combines simplicity and depth of flavor. The barley soaked in the aroma of forest white mushrooms acquires a delicate texture, while cream and parmesan add creaminess and rich taste. Historically, barley has been used in traditional dishes of many nations, but in this recipe it reveals itself in a new role reminiscent of delicate risotto. The subtle aroma of white wine enhances the mushroom notes, creating a harmony of flavors. The dish is perfect for cozy home dinners as well as festive occasions, allowing one to enjoy the depth of flavor from natural ingredients. It is best served hot, garnished with delicate slices of mushrooms to emphasize its elegance and natural richness.

Energy value per serving

• Calories: 341.6
• Proteins: 12.3g
• Fats: 18.2g
• Carbohydrates: 29.4g

Ingredients

• Pearl barley: 200 g
• White mushrooms: 250 g
• Onion: 1 pc
• Dry white wine: 150 ml
• Garlic: 1 clove
• Vegetable oil: 40 ml
• Chicken broth: 2 l
• Cream 35%: 150 ml
• Ground black pepper: to taste
• Salt: to taste
• Grated Parmesan cheese: to taste

Cooking steps

1. Sort the pearl barley, rinse well, soak for at least an hour, then rinse again and let the water drain.

   Required ingredients:

   • Pearl barley: 200 g

2. Finely chop the onion, peel and crush the garlic with the flat side of a knife. Wash the mushrooms well and dry them. Cut them in half, slice strips for decoration, and chop the rest coarsely.

   Required ingredients:

   • Onion: 1 piece
   • Garlic: 1 clove
   • White mushrooms: 250 g

3. Boil chicken broth, or in the very last case, you can make it from a 'cube'. Put the broth on low heat - we need it hot.

   Required ingredients:

   • Chicken broth: 2 l

4. In a thick-bottomed pan or pot, heat the oil, sauté the onion and garlic until translucent. Then add the mushrooms, which will release some moisture. Stir constantly until the moisture evaporates.

   Required ingredients:

   • Vegetable oil: 40 ml
   • Onion: 1 piece
   • Garlic: 1 clove
   • White mushrooms: 250 g

5. Add the pearl barley and sauté for 4 minutes while constantly stirring. Then add the wine and let it evaporate.

   Required ingredients:

   • Pearl barley: 200 g
   • Dry white wine: 150 ml

6. After that, continuously add hot broth to the pearl barley with mushrooms, like risotto, and cook over medium heat until ready.

   Required ingredients:

   • Chicken broth: 2 l

7. Place mushroom slices on top for decoration, removing them when stirring the porridge.

   Required ingredients:

   • White mushrooms: 250 g

8. Salt and pepper to taste. Turn off the heat, add cream, and mix well. Grated Parmesan can be added.

   Required ingredients:

   • Salt:  to taste
   • Ground black pepper:  to taste
   • Cream 35%: 150 ml
   • Grated Parmesan cheese:  to taste

9. Serve hot.