Comfort in a Bowl: Barley Porridge with Mushrooms and Chicken

Barley porridge, a traditional staple in many cultures, is revered not only for its comforting texture but also for its health benefits and versatility. This hearty dish, which combines the nutty flavor of barley with the earthiness of mushrooms and the richness of chicken, makes for a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any season. Here’s a closer look at how to prepare this nourishing dish, along with some tips to make it your own.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup pearl barley, rinsed
• 4 cups chicken broth or water
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 300 grams chicken breast, diced
• 300 grams mushrooms, sliced (shiitake, button, or cremini work well)
• 1 carrot, diced
• 1 celery stalk, diced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh herbs (such as parsley or thyme) for garnish

Preparation:

1. Cook the Barley: In a large saucepan, bring the chicken broth to a boil. Add the rinsed barley and simmer on low heat for about 30 minutes, or until it starts to soften.

2. Sauté the Vegetables and Chicken: While the barley is cooking, heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until they become translucent. Add the diced chicken and cook until it is lightly browned and nearly cooked through.

3. Add Mushrooms and Other Vegetables: To the skillet, add the sliced mushrooms, diced carrot, and celery. Cook until the vegetables are tender and the mushrooms have released their moisture and begun to brown.

4. Combine Ingredients: Once the barley is tender, add the sautéed chicken and vegetables to the saucepan. Stir to combine everything evenly. Let the mixture simmer together for another 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. If the porridge is too thick, add more broth or water to reach your desired consistency.

5. Season and Serve: Season the porridge with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh chopped herbs for an added touch of flavor and freshness.

Nutritional Benefits:

Barley is a fantastic source of dietary fiber, particularly beta-glucan, which is known for its power to lower cholesterol and help stabilize blood glucose levels. It’s also a good source of minerals like selenium and magnesium. Chicken adds high-quality protein to the dish, making it more filling and nutritious, while mushrooms provide antioxidants and additional fiber.

Variations:

This barley porridge is quite adaptable. Vegetarians can omit the chicken and use vegetable broth for a hearty plant-based version. For a creamier texture, stir in some grated Parmesan cheese or a splash of cream toward the end of cooking. You can also spice up the dish with ingredients like chopped bacon, different types of mushrooms, or additional vegetables such as spinach or kale.

Conclusion:

Barley porridge with mushrooms and chicken is more than just a meal; it’s a bowl full of comfort that offers both taste and health benefits. It’s perfect for those chilly nights when you need something warming, or any time you want a fulfilling dish that’s also good for you. With its easy adaptability, this porridge can become a regular in your culinary repertoire, satisfying diverse tastes and dietary needs.

❤ Try our USDA certified Hulled Barley and Pearl Barley ❤

Related Blogs:

• Hulled, Hull-less and Pearled Barley - Part 1 - What is the Difference?
• Hulled, Hull-less and Pearled Barley - Part 2 - Cooking & Taste Differences
• Why Hulled Barley? History, Nutrition and Cooking Tips
• The Rustic Charm of Hulled Barley Soup: Mushrooms and Celery Edition
• Hulled Barley vs. Pearl Barley: Nutritional Benefits