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Hearty Pearl Barley Bake

Hearty Pearl Barley Bake brings nutty, tender grains together with sweet onion, earthy mushrooms, and green bell pepper in a buttery, brothy blend. Each bite is comforting and well-seasoned, with a pleasant chew from the barley and a savory depth from chicken stock. Serve it as a cozy side for weeknight dinners or a satisfying vegetarian-friendly main by swapping in vegetable broth.

  • Prep15 mins
  • Cook45 mins
  • Serves4
  • DifficultyEasy
Hearty Pearl Barley Bake
  1. 1

    Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).

  2. 2

    Melt butter in a 1 ½-quart Dutch oven or oven-safe pot over medium heat.

  3. 3

    Add onion and cook until lightly browned, 5 to 8 minutes.

  4. 4

    Add celery and cook, stirring, until it begins to soften, about 5 minutes.

  5. 5

    Stir in barley until it is coated with the butter.

  6. 6

    Stir in mushrooms and bell pepper; season with salt and black pepper.

  7. 7

    Add chicken broth and bring to a boil.

  8. 8

    Cover the Dutch oven.

  9. 9

    Bake in the preheated oven until the barley is nearly tender, about 30 minutes.

  10. 10

    Uncover the Dutch oven and continue baking until most of the liquid has been absorbed, about 15 minutes more.

  11. 11

    Taste and adjust the seasonings before serving.