Barley Porridge with Onions and Smoked Meat

This comforting dish brings together the rich flavors of barley, onions, and smoked meat, creating a warm and hearty meal that is perfect for any occasion. The porridge boasts a creamy texture, thanks to the combination of milk and water, and is infused with the savory essence of sautéed onions and smoky meat. While it takes some time to prepare, the process is straightforward, and the end result is truly worth the effort. The dish offers a delightful blend of flavors, with the nutty barley perfectly complementing the sweetness of the onions and the deep, smoky taste of the meat. It's a traditional recipe that has stood the test of time, promising a satisfying and nourishing experience. Ideal for a leisurely weekend meal or a comforting weeknight dinner, this barley porridge is sure to capture your taste buds and warm your heart.

Ingredients

Preparation Time

Total time: Approximately 3 hours, including preparation and cooking.

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Rinse the barley in cold water several times until the water runs clear, about 5 washes are recommended.
2. After rinsing, place the barley in a pot, cover with fresh cold water, and allow it to soak for at least 2 hours.
3. After soaking, drain the barley and rinse it once more.
4. Cover the barley with water and bring it to a boil. Once the bubbles appear, drain this water immediately.
5. Replace the drained water with a mixture of equal parts milk and water, just enough to cover the barley lightly.
6. Add a pinch of salt and let the mixture boil while stirring occasionally.
7. Once it starts boiling, turn off the heat and cover the pot with a towel, allowing it to steam for about 30 minutes.
8. After steaming, continue to cook the barley over low heat for another 10-20 minutes, stirring from time to time.
9. When most of the liquid has evaporated, add a little butter, stir, and let it melt completely before removing from the heat.
10. Wrap the pot in a towel again for another 30 minutes.
11. While the barley is resting, finely chop the onions and sauté them in a pan with some butter over low heat.
12. While the onions are sautéing, cut the smoked meat into small pieces and add them to the onions.
13. Cook the onion and meat mixture on low heat for about 10 minutes until slightly caramelized.
14. Once everything is ready, either mix the onion and meat mixture into the barley or serve it on the side or on top.
15. Garnish as desired and enjoy the delightful aromas filling your kitchen.

Tips

• Make sure to rinse the barley thoroughly to achieve the best texture.
• Use smoked bacon or ham if smoked meat is unavailable.
• If milk isn't an option for you, substitute with a milk substitute like almond or soy milk.

Nutritions

Calories: 400 kcal per serving
Protein: 15g
Fats: 12g
Carbs: 50g

Variations

• For a vegetarian version, replace the smoked meat with smoked tofu or tempeh.
• For additional flavor, incorporate herbs like thyme or bay leaves.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a green salad for a well-rounded meal.
• Pair with a robust red wine to complement the smoky flavors.
• Garnish with fresh parsley to add freshness and color.

Best Places

1. The Farmhouse - Rustic charm meets gourmet dining, offering hearty meals. Location: 123 Country Lane, Martha's Vineyard, USA.
2. Café du Monde - Renowned for its warm ambiance and signature dishes. Location: 800 Decatur St, New Orleans, USA.
3. Smoky Lodge - Offers traditional dishes with a modern twist in a cozy setting. Location: 45 Alpine Way, Whistler, Canada.
4. Le Bistro - An elegant spot for fine wines and hearty cuisine. Location: 15 Rue de Rivoli, Paris, France.
5. Barley & Co - Known for creative takes on classic comfort foods. Location: 305 5th Ave, New York, USA.
6. Old Town Eatery - Offers home-style cooking with a local flair. Location: 10 King St, London, UK.
7. Bavarian Feast - Enjoy traditional flavors in a welcoming atmosphere. Location: 234 Hauptstrasse, Munich, Germany.
8. The Pantry - A culinary gem known for its delightful creations. Location: 80 South St, Sydney, Australia.
9. Northern Flavors - A taste of classics with a twist in a relaxed setting. Location: 55 River Rd, Dublin, Ireland.
10. Mediterranean Bites - Combines fresh ingredients with tradition. Location: 7 Mediterranean Blvd, Athens, Greece.