Amaya
Novice Foodie
Hey everyone! I really wanted to share this amazing recipe for barley pilaf with asparagus . It's super easy to make and tastes so delicious!
Ingredients:
Ingredients:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion
- 2 medium carrots
- 1 clove garlic
- 1 cup pearl barley
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 3 cups water
- 1 tsp reduced-sodium vegetable base
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 bunch asparagus
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- Freshly ground pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup parmesan cheese
- Heat up the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. While it's warming up, chop up the onion and add it to the pot.
- Peel and chop the carrots and garlic, then toss them into the pot as well.
- Sprinkle in the dried thyme and give everything a good stir.
- Rinse the pearl barley in a strainer, then add it to the pot. Let it toast for about 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Pour in the water, add the reduced-sodium vegetable base, and sprinkle in the salt.
- Crank up the heat until the water starts boiling vigorously, then reduce it to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer gently for about 20 minutes. Don't forget to stir occasionally!
- While the barley is cooking, clean and trim the asparagus, then chop it into bite-sized pieces. Grate up that delicious parmesan cheese too.
- After 20 minutes, check the barley—it should be soft but still have a bit of chewiness to it. If you like it softer, cook it for another 5 minutes or so.
- When the barley is just right, toss in the asparagus and stir it all together. Let it cook covered for just 1 more minute, then remove it from the heat and take off the lid.
- Squeeze in the lemon juice, sprinkle on some freshly ground pepper, and top it all off with that lovely parmesan cheese.
If you're feeling adventurous, try adding some toasted pine nuts or chopped almonds for some extra crunch and flavor. It's a delightful addition to an already fantastic dish! Enjoy your barley pilaf with asparagus!