Wild Rice & Barley Pilaf

Servings: 5 Difficulty: Intermediate
Hearty grain medley with caramelized mushrooms and onions
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This Wild Rice & Barley Pilaf is a comforting, earthy side dish that combines the nutty crunch of wild rice with the chewy texture of pearl barley. The base features deeply caramelized onions and mushrooms, creating a rich, savory flavor profile enhanced by aromatic garlic. It&# 226;€™s a perfect accompaniment to roasted meats or hearty stews, offering a satisfying, wholesome meal component. The grains are simmered in chicken broth for maximum flavor, resulting in a dish that is both nutritious and delicious. Ideal for cozy dinners or as a make-ahead side for gatherings, this recipe delivers consistent, home-style warmth to your table.

Wild Rice & Barley Pilaf recipe image
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Wild Rice & Barley Pilaf

Difficulty: Intermediate
Servings: 5 Calories: 511.4

Description

This Wild Rice & Barley Pilaf is a comforting, earthy side dish that combines the nutty crunch of wild rice with the chewy texture of pearl barley. The base features deeply caramelized onions and mushrooms, creating a rich, savory flavor profile enhanced by aromatic garlic. It&# 226;€™s a perfect accompaniment to roasted meats or hearty stews, offering a satisfying, wholesome meal component. The grains are simmered in chicken broth for maximum flavor, resulting in a dish that is both nutritious and delicious. Ideal for cozy dinners or as a make-ahead side for gatherings, this recipe delivers consistent, home-style warmth to your table.

Ingredients

Directions

  1. In a 12-inch frying pan or 2- to 3-quart pan, combine onion, mushrooms, garlic, and 1/2 cup water.
  2. Cook uncovered on high heat, stirring often, until liquid evaporates and a brown film forms in the pan, about 15 minutes.
  3. Add 2 or 3 tablespoons of water and stir to free the brown film; cook until the film forms again.
  4. Repeat the water-addition step 4 or 5 times until onions are richly browned, about 15 minutes total.
  5. Rinse and drain the wild rice.
  6. Mix the rinsed rice with the chicken broth in the pan with the onions and mushrooms.
  7. Bring to a boil on high heat, then cover and simmer for 30 minutes.
  8. Rinse and drain the pearl barley.
  9. Add the barley to the rice mixture in the pan.
  10. Simmer until the grains are tender to the bite but still slightly chewy, about 20 minutes longer.
  11. Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 5


Amount Per Serving
Calories 511.4kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 20.6g32%
Saturated Fat 5.6g28%
Cholesterol 149.5mg50%
Sodium 142.0mg6%
Total Carbohydrate 23.5g8%
Dietary Fiber 1.9g8%
Sugars 1.9g
Protein 48.8g98%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

For a vegetarian version, substitute vegetable broth for the chicken broth.

Wild rice and barley have different cooking times, which is why the barley is added halfway through. Ensure the barley is rinsed well to remove excess starch.

This pilaf can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of water to restore moisture.

Keywords: wild rice, pearl barley, mushroom pilaf, caramelized onions, grain salad, side dish, vegetarian option, comfort food, earthyn flavors, simmered grains
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