Barley Pilaf

Short on time? Using quick-cooking barley will cut this recipe time in half. See the notes for more information.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 cup onion (chopped)
- 1/2 cup celery (chopped)
- green or red bell pepper, chopped (1/2 cup, optional)
- 1 cup mushrooms (fresh sliced, or 1- 4 ounce can mushrooms, drained)
- 1 cup pearl barley (uncooked)
- 1 teaspoon vegetable bouillon (or beef or chicken, low sodium)
- 2 1/2 cups water
Directions
1. Place a medium pan over medium heat; add vegetable oil, onion and celery. Cook, stirring often until onion is soft.
2. Add bell pepper (if using), mushrooms and pearl barley. Stir well.
3. Add water and bouillon and stir to dissolve bouillon. Bring to a boil, lower heat and cover pan.
4. Cook for 50 to 60 minutes or until barley is tender and liquid is absorbed.
Notes
- This can be used as a side dish, or stuffing for pork chops or chicken.
- To serve as a main dish, add 2 cups of any chopped cooked meat during the last fifteen minutes of cooking.
- If using quick-cooking barley the recipe can be prepared in 15 minutes or less. Reduce water to 2 cups and cook for 10 to 15 minutes.
Learn more about:
- Mushrooms
- Celery
- Onions
- Bell Peppers
Montana State University Extension Service, Montana Extension Nutrition Education Program
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