Pearl porridge with vegetables

Here’s a nutritious recipe for pearl barley porridge with vegetables—a hearty dish that's perfect for a wholesome meal!

Pearl Barley Porridge with Vegetables

Ingredients:

• 1 cup pearl barley
• 3 cups vegetable broth or water
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup carrots, diced
• 1 cup bell peppers, diced
• 1 cup zucchini, diced (or other seasonal vegetables)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or your favorite herbs)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional toppings: Fresh herbs (like parsley or cilantro), grated cheese, or a drizzle of olive oil

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Pearl Barley:

   • Rinse the pearl barley under cold water. In a saucepan, combine the rinsed barley and 3 cups of vegetable broth (or water). Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for about 30-40 minutes, or until the barley is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid. Stir occasionally.

2. Sauté the Vegetables:

   • In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, until translucent.
   • Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.
   • Stir in the diced carrots and bell peppers. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften. Add the zucchini and cook for another 3-5 minutes.

3. Combine:

   • Once the pearl barley is cooked, add it to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Stir in the dried thyme, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything well and heat through for a couple of minutes.

4. Serve:

   • Spoon the vegetable pearl barley porridge into bowls. Top with fresh herbs, grated cheese, or a drizzle of olive oil if desired.

5. Enjoy:

   • Enjoy your hearty and nutritious pearl barley porridge with vegetables!

Tips and Variations:

• Add Protein: You can include cooked beans or lentils for added protein and texture.
• Spice It Up: For a bit of heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
• Other Vegetables: Feel free to use any vegetables you have on hand, such as spinach, peas, or mushrooms.

This dish is versatile and can be customized to your taste. Enjoy!