Lemon Barley Pilaf Recipe
Prepare to tantalize your taste buds with this vibrant and wholesome Lemon Barley Pilaf, a delightful grain dish that promises both health and flavor. From the heart of the kitchen at Love With Recipes, this recipe is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can come together to create a meal that’s as nutritious as it is delicious.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon butter 🧈
- 1 onion, finely chopped 🧅
- 3/4 cup pearl barley 🌾
- 2 bay leaves 🌿
- 1 carrot, diced 🥕
- 1 red bell pepper, diced 🌶️
- Zest of 1 lemon 🍋
- 1 teaspoon salt 🧂
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper 🌑
- 2 cups chicken stock 🐔 (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
Instructions
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Melt Butter: Start by melting the butter in a medium-sized saucepan over medium heat. The butter will serve as the base for our flavors, adding a rich, creamy undertone to the dish.
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Sauté Onion: Add the finely chopped onion to the saucepan. Season with salt and black pepper. Sauté the onion for about 5 minutes, or until it becomes translucent and soft. This step builds the foundation of flavor for our pilaf.
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Coat Barley: Add the pearl barley to the pan, stirring well to ensure that each grain is coated with the buttery mixture. This helps the barley absorb all the flavors as it cooks.
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Add Stock and Bay Leaves: Pour in the chicken stock and add the bay leaves. Stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the pan with a lid and let it cook for about 25 minutes. The barley should become tender and absorb most of the liquid.
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Incorporate Carrots and Bell Pepper: Add the diced carrot and red bell pepper to the pan. Cover again and cook for an additional 6 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften and meld with the barley.
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Rest and Finish: Remove the pan from heat. Stir the pilaf, cover, and let it stand for 10 minutes. This resting period allows the flavors to settle and the barley to finish cooking gently.
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Season and Serve: Stir in the lemon zest, and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Serve the pilaf warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 222.8
- Fat: 4.9g
- Saturated Fat: 2.3g
- Cholesterol: 11.2mg
- Sodium: 212.6mg
- Carbohydrates: 38.4g
- Fiber: 7.1g
- Sugar: 4.7g
- Protein: 7.4g
This Lemon Barley Pilaf is not just a treat for the taste buds but also a nourishing option for those seeking a low-cholesterol and heart-healthy meal. With its bright flavors and satisfying texture, it makes a fantastic side dish or a light main course. Enjoy the delightful combination of lemon zest and tender barley with every bite! 🍽️🌟
