Barley "Risotto" with Asparagus & Shiitakes
http://www.eatingwell.com/recipes/barley_risotto_with_asparagus_shiitakes.html
The nutty flavor and toothsome texture of barley make it a ideal complement for Parmesan cheese in this risotto-style dish. Be sure to use the convenient quick-cooking barley, which is available in most supermarkets, rather than regular barley, which takes much longer to cook.
4 servings | Active Time: 35 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes
Ingredients
- 12 ounces asparagus
- 2 1/2 cups reduced-sodium chicken broth, or vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 bunch scallions, (white and light green parts), chopped (3/4 cup)
- 4 ounces shiitake mushrooms, stems removed, caps thinly sliced
- 1 cup quick-cooking barley
- 1/2 cup dry white wine
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt & freshly ground pepper, to taste
Preparation
- Snap off ends of asparagus stalks. Peel asparagus stalks with a vegetable peeler; cut into 1 1/2-inch lengths. Steam until just tender, about 3 minutes. Set aside.
- Bring broth to a simmer in a saucepan or in the microwave; keep warm. Heat oil in a heavy, wide pan over medium heat. Add scallions and shiitakes and cook, stirring occasionally, until tender, 3 to 4 minutes. Add barley and stir for 1 minute. Add wine and stir until evaporated, about 1 minute.
- Add about 1/2 cup of the hot broth and cook, stirring frequently, until most of the liquid has been absorbed. Continue cooking, adding enough broth, 1/2 cup at a time, and stirring frequently, until the barley is just tender and the mixture has a slightly saucy consistency, about 10 minutes. Remove from the heat and stir in the cheese and the reserved asparagus. Season with salt and pepper and serve.
Nutrition
Per serving : 275 Calories; 8 g Fat; 3 g Sat; 4 g Mono; 12 mg Cholesterol; 37 g Carbohydrates; 13 g Protein; 6 g Fiber; 392 mg Sodium; 368 mg Potassium
1/2 Carbohydrate Serving
Exchanges: 2 starch, 1 vegetable, 1/2 medium-fat meat, 1 fat