Pearl Barley Pilaf
Sometimes it’s just nice to eat something other than rice and bread with Indian food. This pilaf can be served in place of a rice pilaf with any dish and many actually prefer it, as the barley can take more spices than rice.
Pearl Barley
3/4 cup (180 mL) pearl barley
3 cups (750 mL) water
1 1/2 tsp (7 mL) canola oil
1 1/2 tsp (7 mL) salt
Rinse barley in cold water. Combine water, oil, and salt in a medium pot and heat on high heat. When water reaches a vigorous boil, add barley. Reduce the heat to low; cover and simmer for 25 minutes. Stir barley, replace lid, and turn off the heat. Allow to sit for 5 to 10 minutes.
Masala
1/4 cup (60 mL) canola oil
1 1/2 cups (350 mL or 1 large) onion, chopped
2 Tbsp (30 mL) garlic, finely chopped
1 1/2 Tbsp (22 mL) ginger, finely chopped
1 Tbsp (15 mL) jalapeno pepper, finely chopped
1/3 cup (80 mL) cilantro, chopped
In a separate frying pan, heat the oil on medium-high for 1 minute. Add the onions and saute them for 5 to 8 minutes or until they are golden. Add the garlic and saute for another 3 to 4 minutes. Add the ginger and jalapeno pepper, then stir and cook for 2 or 3 minutes. Add the barley to the masala, add cilantro, and stir well.
When reheating, add 1/2 cup (125 mL) water to the barley pilaf and heat it on medium heat. As soon as you see steam, reduce the heat to low; cover and simmer for 5 minutes. Serve immediately.
Serves 6.
source: "Vij's", alive #303, January 2008
Pearl Barley Pilaf
Directions
READ THIS NEXT
SEE MORE »
Strawberry Carpaccio
This simple dessert celebrates the glory that is the summer strawberry. Don’t feel you have to stick to strawberries here; swapping them for ripe peaches would also make for a stunning ending to any meal. What to gild the lily with? Add a dollop of whipped coconut cream or a small scoop of vanilla ice cream. Flower power Orange blossom water (also known as orange flower water) is produced by water distillation of the blossoms of a bitter orange tree. Just like rose water, a little goes a long way. So, take care and use just a drop or two, tasting as you go so as not to overwhelm but rather to complement the other flavours in a dish.
Greek Turkey Burger Bites
Ever thought about making burgers as an appetizer or as a potluck meal for friends and family? Try making your favourite burger into bite-sized portions. They might be small in size, but they won’t be small in flavour. These burgers also pair well with a Greek salad for a delicious mid-week lunch or dinner. Fresh is best Squeeze fresh lemon on patties while cooking to give them the fresh zing of citrus.
Italian Portobello Mushroom Burger with Artichoke Tapenade
What worldwide vacation is complete without a stop in Italy? Dad won’t miss the meat in this flavourful mushroom alternative complete with Italian spices and a zesty vegetable tapenade. Portobellos have a uniquely “meaty” texture and act as a sponge to lock in loads of flavour. This meaty plant-based burger is sure to become a favourite—even with any meat-lovers in your life. Custom-made! Don’t be afraid to customize your burger buns to fit your patties. If your bun’s too big, trim off excess and save the trimmed bits of bread, but don’t discard. Instead, cut into small cubes; drizzle with some olive oil, sea salt, and seasonings of choice; bake at 350 F (180 C) for 10 to 15 minutes, and you’ll have delicious homemade croutons for use in soups and salads throughout the week.
Asian Shrimp Burger with Bean Sprout Slaw and Fresh Mango
Next stop, Asia! This shrimp burger combines classic Asian flavours with unique toppings for rich umami flavour with the saltiness of the ocean. Whether served on a bun or over rice in a more traditional Asian-style meal, try some unique miso yogurt or wasabi mayo dressing for a fabulous flavour bomb. Keep those burgers juicy Place raw patties on a plate or tray, and cover and freeze or refrigerate for 15 to 30 minutes to keep them together and to lock in moisture.