European
Ireland - Pasta and Grains
Creamy Barley Bake
Chef's Menu Description
Wholesome Irish comfort bake: pearl barley cooked slowly in vegetable stock, baked with leeks, cream, white wine, and sharp Irish Cheddar until tender and bubbling.
Ingredients
- • 250g pearl barley, thoroughly rinsed
- • 1 large leek, washed and sliced
- • 2 garlic cloves, minced
- • 600ml rich vegetable broth
- • 150ml double cream
- • 100g Irish Cheddar cheese, grated
- • 30g butter, fresh thyme leaves, salt, and black pepper
Preparation Steps
1
Phase 1
Melt butter in an ovenproof casserole over medium heat. Sauté sliced leek and garlic for 5 minutes until soft.
2
Phase 2
Add rinsed pearl barley and fresh thyme. Pour in hot vegetable broth, bring to a boil, cover, and bake at 180°C for 35 minutes until barley absorbs broth.
3
Phase 3
Stir in double cream and half the grated cheese. Season with salt and pepper.
4
Phase 4
Scatter remaining cheese on top. Bake uncovered for 15 minutes until top is golden and bubbly.