Simple Barley Pilaf

Simple Barley Pilaf puts butter, medium pearl barley and pine nuts or almonds at the center of a side recipe and finishes in about 85 minutes, enough for 6 servings.

• Yield 6 servings
• Ready in 85 minutes
• Prep 5 minutes
• Cook 80 minutes

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 cup medium pearl barley (not quick cooking barley)
• 1/4 - 1/2 cup pine nuts or almonds (optional)
• 2 cloves garlic (finely minced)
• 1 medium onion (chopped)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 3 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F.
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat and add the barley, nuts (if using), garlic and onions. Saute the mixture, stirring frequently, until the onions are tender and the barley is golden.
3. Scrape the mixture into a 3-quart baking dish and stir in the salt, pepper and chicken broth.
4. Bake uncovered for 60-80 minutes, until the liquid is absorbed and the barley is tender. Garnish with green onions, if desired.

Give it a minute off the heat, then serve it while it is still hot.