Mushroom Barley Casserole is a symphony of flavors. The dried porcini mushrooms bring a deep, umami taste, while the barley provides a chewy, nutty base. Garlic and marjoram add layers of complexity, making every bite an experience. Cream provides a rich, velvety texture that ties all the flavors together. Whether you're a seasoned vegetarian food enthusiast or a home cook looking to diversify your menu, this casserole will offer an unforgettable culinary experience.
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Mushroom Barley Casserole
🎥Video Recipe:
📖Printable Recipe:
Mushroom Barley Casserole
Ingredients
- 1 ⅓ cup barley rinsed and dried
- 60 g 2 oz dried porcini mushrooms
- 60 g 2 oz bacon, sliced
- 1 medium white onion chopped
- ½ teaspoon marjoram
- 3 garlic cloves minced
- ⅔ cup cream
- 2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 180C/350F.
- Pour 4 cups of hot water over dried porcini mushrooms. Set aside for at least 1 hour up to overnight. Drain mushrooms and save the liquid.60 g 2 oz dried porcini mushrooms
- Pour mushroom soaking liquid over barley, add a generous pinch of salt and cook following the instructions until barley is fully cooked. Drain.2 teaspoon salt, 1 ⅓ cup barley
- Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a large pan and saute onions and bacon, cook for 8-10 minutes.1 medium white onion, 60 g 2 oz bacon, sliced
- Add marjoram and garlic, cook for 30 seconds. Mix cooked barley with onions and bacon. Transfer into a baking pan and pour cream on top.½ teaspoon marjoram, 3 garlic cloves, ⅔ cup cream
- Bake for 20 minutes.
Video
Nutrition
📋Ingredients
- 1 ⅓ cup barley, rinsed and dried
- 60 g (2 oz) dried porcini mushrooms
- 60 g (2 oz) bacon, sliced
- 1 medium white onion, chopped
- ½ teaspoon marjoram
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- ⅔ cup cream
- 2 teaspoon salt
🔪How Do I Make It?
Preheat the oven to 180C/350F.
Pour 4 cups of hot water over dried porcini mushrooms. Set aside for at least 1 hour up to overnight. Drain mushrooms and save the liquid.
Pour mushroom soaking liquid over barley, add a generous pinch of salt and cook following the instructions until barley is fully cooked. Drain.
Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a large pan and saute onions and bacon, cook for 8-10 minutes.
Add marjoram and garlic, cook for 30 seconds. Mix cooked barley with onions and bacon. Transfer into a baking pan and pour cream on top.
Bake for 20 minutes.
🍽What Do I Serve With This Casserole Dish?
Complementary Sides
Pair your Mushroom Barley Casserole with a crisp green salad topped with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness of the casserole. Roasted vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or asparagus also make excellent sides, adding color and additional nutrients to your meal. For a complete vegetarian feast, consider serving it with a fresh loaf of crusty bread to soak up all the delicious flavors.
Light Soups
A light soup, such as a clear vegetable broth or a simple miso soup, can also serve as a great starter. The lightness of the soup will complement the hearty nature of the casserole without overwhelming your palate. Plus, the warm liquid can help to cleanse the palate and get you ready for the main event.
Beverages
Pairing the right drink with your meal can elevate your dining experience. A glass of white wine, such as a Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, complements the earthy flavors of mushrooms beautifully. For non-alcoholic options, consider a sparkling water with a splash of lemon or a robust herbal tea like chamomile or mint.
⏲️Chef's Tip
Prepping Porcini Mushrooms
To get the most flavor out of your dried porcini mushrooms, soak them in hot water for at least an hour, but preferably overnight. This not only rehydrates the mushrooms but also infuses the soaking liquid with intense mushroom flavor. Be sure to save this liquid and use it to cook the barley for an extra depth of flavor.
Perfecting the Texture
The key to a perfect casserole is balancing textures. Ensure your barley is cooked just right—not too mushy, not too hard. The goal is to have a chewy texture that contrasts nicely with the creamy sauce and tender mushrooms. When sautéing onions and bacon, aim for a golden-brown finish to add a bit of crunch and sweetness.
Enhancing Flavor
Don't be afraid to season generously. Salt is your friend when it comes to bringing out the natural flavors of the ingredients. Marjoram and garlic are essential to this recipe, but feel free to experiment with other herbs like thyme or rosemary for a unique twist.
💭Frequently Asked Questions
Is Mushroom Barley Casserole Gluten-Free?
Unfortunately, barley contains gluten, so this dish is not suitable for those with gluten intolerance or celiac disease. However, you can substitute barley with a gluten-free grain like quinoa or rice. The texture will be different, but the dish will still be delicious and nutritious.
Can I Make This Dish Vegan?
Yes, you can easily make Mushroom Barley Casserole vegan by substituting the cream with a plant-based alternative like coconut cream or cashew cream. Leave out the bacon or replace it with a smoky plant-based bacon for that extra savory touch. The flavors will still be rich and satisfying.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop it in the microwave or oven until warmed through. This casserole also freezes well. Freeze individual portions for up to a month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Can Mushroom Barley Casserole Be Made Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Mushroom Barley Casserole is a fantastic dish for meal prepping. You can prepare the whole casserole and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Simply cover it with foil and bake it when you're ready to enjoy a warm, hearty meal. This makes it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or when you're entertaining guests and want to minimize day-of prep.
What Are Some Variations I Can Try?
There are several delicious variations to try if you'd like to change up the classic recipe. For a more robust flavor, consider adding other varieties of mushrooms such as shiitake or portobello. You could also incorporate additional veggies like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrients. For a cheesy twist, sprinkle some grated Parmesan or mozzarella on top of the casserole before baking to add a savory crust.
Is This Dish Kid-Friendly?
Mushroom Barley Casserole can indeed be a hit with kids, especially if you modify it to their tastes. Consider reducing the amount of garlic if your children are sensitive to strong flavors, and perhaps add some shredded cheese to make the dish more appealing to young palates. You could also let the kids help with the preparation as the simple steps make it a child-friendly cooking activity.
🥘More Easy Casseroles
Casseroles are a fantastic way to experiment with different ingredients and flavors. They are also incredibly convenient, often requiring minimal prep time and resulting in a comforting, home-cooked meal. Whether you're a busy professional or a passionate home cook, casseroles can simplify your cooking routine while offering delectable results. Check out these epic recipes that I just can't get enough of:
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