20 Hearty Barley Recipes for Every Occasion

20 Hearty Barley Recipes for Every Occasion

When it comes to adding texture and nutrition to your meals, few grains can rival the mighty barley. This versatile ingredient has been a staple in many cuisines around the world for centuries, and its unique flavor and chewy texture make it a perfect addition to a wide range of dishes. From hearty soups and stews to flavorful salads and side dishes, barley is a grain that can do it all.

In this article, we’ll explore 20 delicious barley recipes that are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a comforting bowl of soup to warm up on a chilly day or a quick and easy salad to bring to work, we’ve got you covered. So grab your apron and get ready to cook up some tasty barley dishes!

Barley and Mushroom Risotto

Transform Arborio rice into a creamy delight with the earthy flavors of barley and mushrooms. This recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 2 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 1/4 cup pearl barley, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), cleaned and sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent.
2. Add barley and cook for 1-2 minutes or until lightly toasted.
3. Add Arborio rice and stir to combine with barley and oil.
4. Cook for 1 minute, then add broth, one cup at a time, stirring continuously.
5. After 20 minutes of cooking, add mushrooms and garlic. Continue to cook and stir until liquid is absorbed.
6. Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Beef and Barley Soup

Beef and Barley Soup Recipe

Hearty and comforting, this classic soup recipe combines tender beef with nutty barley and a medley of vegetables for a satisfying meal.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound beef stew meat (such as chuck or round)
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 cup pearled barley
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the beef over medium-high heat until browned on all sides.
2. Add the beef broth, barley, onion, garlic, carrots, celery, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 1/2 hours, or until the beef is tender and the barley is cooked.

Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Servings: 4-6

Barley Salad with Roasted Vegetables

A hearty and flavorful salad that combines the nutty taste of roasted barley with a variety of colorful vegetables.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup pearled barley
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as Brussels sprouts, carrots, and red bell peppers)
– 2 teaspoons honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, bring the barley and 2 cups of water to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 40-45 minutes or until the barley is tender.
3. Toss the chopped onion and minced garlic with 1 tablespoon of olive oil on a baking sheet. Roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes or until the onion is caramelized.
4. Add the mixed vegetables to the baking sheet and toss with the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Roast for an additional 15-20 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
5. In a large bowl, combine the cooked barley, roasted vegetable mixture, and honey. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.

Cooking Time: Approximately 1 hour 10 minutes

Barley Porridge with Honey and Berries

Warm Up with Wholesome Barley Porridge

Start your day with a hearty and comforting bowl of barley porridge, sweetened with honey and topped with fresh berries.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup pearled barley
– 2 cups water or milk
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1/4 cup mixed berries (such as blueberries, strawberries, raspberries)
– Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Rinse the barley and combine it with the oats in a medium saucepan.
2. Add the water or milk and bring to a boil over high heat.
3. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the grains have broken down and the mixture has thickened slightly.
4. Stir in the honey until dissolved.
5. Top with mixed berries and a pinch of salt.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Chicken Barley Stew

This comforting stew is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, featuring tender chicken, nutty barley, and rich vegetables.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, potatoes, celery, etc.)
– 1 cup pearl barley
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
4. Add the mixed vegetables, barley, broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Return the chicken to the pot, cover, and bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the barley is tender.

Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes

Barley and Lentil Pilaf

A flavorful and nutritious one-pot dish that’s perfect for a comforting meal or a quick lunch.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup pearl barley
– 1 cup brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Rinse the barley and lentils together in a fine-mesh strainer until the water runs clear.
2. In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add the barley-lentil mixture and water to the saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 40-45 minutes or until the grains are tender.
5. Fluff with a fork and garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.

Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes

Barley Bread with Seeds

This recipe yields a deliciously dense and nutritious bread packed with the nutty flavor of barley and the crunch of seeds.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups whole wheat flour
– 1 cup pearled barley, rinsed and drained
– 1/2 cup sesame seeds
– 1/4 cup sunflower seeds
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
– 1 cup warm water

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, barley, sesame seeds, sunflower seeds, salt, sugar, and yeast.
3. Add warm water and mix until a sticky dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes.
5. Place the dough in the prepared loaf pan and cover with plastic wrap or a damp cloth.
6. Let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
7. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until golden brown.

Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes

Barley and Kale Soup

This comforting soup combines the nutty flavor of barley with the earthy sweetness of kale, making it a perfect choice for a chilly day.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup pearl barley, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups vegetable broth, low sodium
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and discarded, leaves coarsely chopped
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the barley, vegetable broth, kale, and thyme. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 40-45 minutes or until the barley is tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.

Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes

Barley Stuffed Bell Peppers

This recipe is a flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional stuffed peppers. By filling bell peppers with a savory barley mixture, you’ll create a delicious and healthy meal perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients:

– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup cooked barley
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked barley, chopped onion, minced garlic, grated cheese, and breadcrumbs.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the barley mixture, filling to the top.
5. Place stuffed peppers in a baking dish and drizzle with olive oil.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until bell peppers are tender.

Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes

Barley and Chickpea Curry

Warm up with this flavorful and nutritious curry made with hearty barley and creamy chickpeas.

Ingredients:
– 1 cup pearl barley, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz), drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, bring the barley and water or broth to a boil.
2. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 40-45 minutes or until the barley is tender.
3. While the barley cooks, heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
5. Stir in cumin, curry powder, and turmeric. Cook for 1 minute.
6. Add the chickpeas, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
7. Combine the cooked barley with the chickpea mixture.

Cooking Time: 50-55 minutes

Barley and Spinach Casserole

Barley and Spinach Casserole Recipe

This hearty casserole combines the nutty flavor of barley with the earthy taste of spinach, making it a perfect comfort food dish for any occasion.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup pearl barley, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the barley according to package instructions using water or broth.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Stir in the fresh spinach leaves and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
6. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, combine the cooked barley, spinach mixture, and grated cheese.
7. Sprinkle breadcrumbs on top and season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is golden brown.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Barley and Sweet Potato Hash

A hearty and flavorful side dish that combines the nutty goodness of barley with the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup pearl barley, rinsed and drained
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, bring the barley and 4 cups water to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 40-45 minutes or until the barley is tender.
3. While the barley cooks, toss the sweet potatoes with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes or until tender and lightly caramelized.
4. In a large skillet, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 5 minutes or until translucent. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Once the barley is cooked, fluff it with a fork and add it to the skillet with the onion mixture. Stir to combine.
6. Add the roasted sweet potatoes to the skillet and stir until well combined.

Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes

Barley and Tomato Basil Soup

Warm up with this comforting and flavorful soup, perfect for a cozy evening meal or as a side dish for your favorite main courses.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup pearl barley
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 medium tomatoes, diced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
2. Add the barley and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lightly toasted.
3. Add the vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, and basil. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the barley is tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes

Barley and Avocado Salad

This refreshing salad combines the nutty flavor of barley with the creamy texture of avocado, perfect for a light and satisfying meal.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup cooked barley
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the cooked barley, diced avocado, and thinly sliced red onion.
2. Sprinkle the chopped cilantro over the top of the salad.
3. Squeeze the lime juice over the salad and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Cooking Time: 10 minutes (assuming cooked barley)

Barley and Sausage Skillet

A hearty and flavorful one-pot meal that combines the comfort of barley with the savory taste of sausage.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup pearl barley, rinsed and drained
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook the barley according to package instructions until tender. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook the sausage over medium-high heat, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the onions, garlic, and bell pepper to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the cooked barley, diced tomatoes, and oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Barley and Blueberry Breakfast Bowl

Start your day with a nutritious and delicious breakfast bowl packed with fiber-rich barley, sweet blueberries, and creamy Greek yogurt.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup cooked barley
– 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
– 6 oz Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
– Chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, mix together cooked barley, blueberries, and a pinch of salt.
2. In a separate bowl, combine Greek yogurt, honey, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
3. Spoon the yogurt mixture over the barley-blueberry mixture.
4. Top with chopped nuts (if using).
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 10 minutes

Barley and Carrot Fritters

These crispy fritters are a delicious twist on traditional veggie bites, packed with the nutty flavor of barley and the sweetness of carrots. Perfect as a snack or side dish.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup cooked barley
– 2 medium carrots, grated
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– Water, as needed

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine cooked barley, grated carrots, flour, salt, and baking powder.
2. Add olive oil, egg, and water (if needed) to the mixture. Mix until well combined and a thick batter forms.
3. Heat about 1/2 inch (1 cm) of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
4. Using a spoon, drop small amounts of the batter into the hot oil, about 1/4 cup each.
5. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Remove from oil with a slotted spoon and drain excess oil on paper towels.
7. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes per batch, depending on the number of fritters.

Barley and Shrimp Paella

Experience the rich flavors of Spain with this hearty and aromatic paella dish, featuring succulent shrimp and nutty barley.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup pearl barley
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook barley according to package instructions; set aside.
3. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, 3-4 minutes.
4. Add shrimp and smoked paprika; cook until pink and just cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side.
5. In a separate pot, combine chicken broth and barley; bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until liquid is absorbed and barley is tender.
6. Combine cooked shrimp mixture with barley mixture; season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.

Cooking Time: Approximately 45 minutes

Barley and Apple Crisp

A deliciously comforting dessert perfect for chilly fall evenings, this Barley and Apple Crisp combines the natural sweetness of apples with the nutty flavor of barley. A simple yet satisfying treat that’s sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup chopped fresh apple (Granny Smith or your favorite variety)
– 1/2 cup pearled barley
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine oats, apple, barley, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. Pour in the melted butter and mix until everything is well combined.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×9-inch baking dish and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the apples are tender.
5. Serve warm, topped with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream if desired.

Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes

Barley and Pumpkin Risotto

This comforting risotto combines the nutty flavor of barley with the sweetness of roasted pumpkin, perfect for a cozy autumn evening.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup Arborio or Barley rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup roasted pumpkin puree (see note)
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Heat the oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the barley and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. Add the white wine (if using) and cook until absorbed.
5. Add 1/2 cup broth and cook, stirring constantly, until almost fully absorbed.
6. Repeat step 5, adding broth in 1/2-cup increments, until the barley is tender, about 20-25 minutes total.
7. Stir in the pumpkin puree and season with salt to taste.
8. Serve immediately, garnished with parsley.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Summary

Get ready to warm up with these 20 hearty barley recipes for every occasion! From comforting soups and stews to flavorful salads and side dishes, barley adds a nutty flavor and satisfying texture. Try Barley and Mushroom Risotto for a creamy Italian-inspired meal or Beef and Barley Soup for a classic comfort food. Or go sweet with Barley Porridge with Honey and Berries for breakfast. There’s something for everyone in this collection of barley recipes that are sure to become new favorites.