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Creamy Barley Risotto

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  • ACTIVE:
  • TOTAL TIME: 50 MIN
  • SERVINGS: 4
  • •VEGETARIAN

Barley becomes rich and creamy when cooked gradually in chicken stock but it still maintains its addictive chew.

  1. 4 cups chicken stock or low-sodium broth
  2. 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  3. 1 medium onion, cut into 1/4-inch dice
  4. 1/4 teaspoon thyme
  5. 1 cup pearled barley (7 ounces)
  6. 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, plus more for serving
  7. 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  8. Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper
  1. In a medium saucepan, bring the chicken stock to a simmer over moderately high heat. Reduce the heat to low and keep warm.
  2. In a large, deep skillet, heat the olive oil. Add the onion and thyme and cook over moderate heat, stirring occasionally, until the onion is softened, about 6 minutes. Add the barley and cook, stirring, for 2 minutes. Add 1 cup of the warm stock and cook, stirring, until nearly absorbed. Continue adding the stock 1/2 cup at a time and stirring until it is nearly absorbed between additions. The risotto is done when the barley is al dente and suspended in a thick, creamy sauce, about 35 minutes. Stir in the 1/2 cup of Parmigiano-Reggiano and the butter and season with salt and pepper. Serve at once, passing more cheese at the table.