Healthy and Hearty Barley Porridge Recipe

Looking for a delicious alternative to your usual morning oatmeal porridge? Discover the rich, nutty flavor of barley porridge – a wholesome breakfast that’ll keep you energized all day long.

The Magic of Batch-Cooking Barley

While barley might sound like an old-fashioned grain, it’s making a comeback in modern kitchens. This versatile cereal grain offers a satisfying chewiness and a wealth of nutrients. The secret to making barley porridge a practical weekday breakfast? Batch cooking!

By preparing a large batch of barley on Sunday, you’ll have a ready-to-use base for quick and easy breakfasts throughout the week. Not only does this save time, but it also allows you to experiment with different toppings and flavors each day.

Why Choose Barley?

Barley isn’t just for brewing beer! This ancient grain is packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals. It has a lower glycemic index compared to many other breakfast cereals, helping to keep your blood sugar levels stable and your energy consistent throughout the morning.

From Stovetop to Bowl: Crafting the Perfect Porridge

Transform your pre-cooked barley into a creamy, comforting porridge in just 15 minutes. The process is simple: combine the barley with milk, a touch of brown sugar, and aromatic cinnamon. As it simmers, the barley absorbs the milk, creating a luxurious texture that’s both satisfying and indulgent.

Customizing Your Bowl

The beauty of barley porridge lies in its versatility. Top it with a mixture of chopped nuts for added crunch, fresh fruits for a burst of flavor, and a drizzle of cream for extra richness. Feel free to experiment with different combinations to find your perfect breakfast match!

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked barley (see recipe notes for cooking instructions)
• 1/2 cup milk
• 2 teaspoons brown sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
• 2 tablespoons chopped toasted walnuts
• Heavy cream
• Fresh fruit for serving

Directions

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the cooked barley, milk, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Place over medium heat.
2. Cook the mixture, stirring occasionally, until the milk has been almost completely absorbed by the barley. This process should take about 15 minutes.
3. Once the desired consistency is reached, divide the barley porridge between two bowls.
4. Top each serving with a sprinkle of chopped walnuts for a delightful crunch.
5. Add a generous drizzle of heavy cream over the top for extra richness.
6. If desired, add some chopped fresh fruit of your choice for a burst of flavor and added nutrients.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy your homemade barley porridge!

Recipe Notes

To cook barley: In a pot, combine 1 cup of pearled barley with 3 cups of water and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer until the barley is tender, which typically takes about 40 minutes. Once cooked, drain any excess water.

Make It Your Own

Feel free to experiment with different toppings and mix-ins. Try adding a dollop of jam, a sprinkle of cocoa powder, or even some dried fruits for variety. You can also swap the regular milk for plant-based alternatives like almond or oat milk for a dairy-free version.

Meal Prep Tips

Cook a large batch of barley on the weekend and store it in the refrigerator. This way, you’ll have a base ready for quick breakfasts throughout the week. You can even portion out the dry ingredients in advance to make your morning routine even smoother.

Nutritional Facts