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350-g pkg pearl barley, about 2 cups
4 cups water
1 1/2 tsp salt
2 tbsp butter
1/2 cup finely chopped red onion
1 sweet red bell pepper, finely chopped
1 zucchini, chopped
125 g mushrooms, sliced, about 1 cup
1 large garlic clove, crushed
1/2 cup white wine
2 to 3 cups chicken broth, or bouillon
1/4 tsp fresh-ground black pepper
1/4 tsp hot-red-chili-flakes
1/2 cup corn kernels
1/2 cup peas, fresh or frozen
1/2 cup grated parmesan
Place barley in a large saucepan. Cover with water and add 1/2 teaspoon salt. Bring to a boil, uncovered, over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally. Reduce heat to low, partially cover and simmer, stirring occasionally, until barley is tender yet firm, about 30 minutes. Drain off remaining water, but do not rinse barley.
Meanwhile, chop vegetables. When barley is cooked, melt butter in a large frying pan set over medium-high heat. When bubbling, add onion, red pepper, zucchini, mushrooms and garlic. Sauté, stirring often, until onion has softened, about 3 to 4 minutes. Add wine, 2-1/2 cups broth, remaining 1 teaspoon salt, pepper, hot red pepper flakes and drained barley. Bring to a boil, stirring often. Then, boil gently, stirring often, until barley has a creamy texture, about 10 minutes. If mixture seems dry, stir in some of remaining broth as needed. Stir in corn, peas and Parmesan. Heat just until vegetables are hot, about 2 minutes. Stir frequently. Serve with a loaf of crusty bread and a green salad. Covered and refrigerated, risotto will keep well for up to 3 days. If serving as a main dish, add more Parmesan.
Calories 179, Protein 4.6g, Carbohydrates 27.2g, Fat 7.3g.
Try this risotto for a light supper or an economical buffet dish when entertaining.