Beet and Goat Cheese Barley Risotto

This delightful dish brings together the earthy sweetness of beets with the creamy and tangy notes of goat cheese, creating a vibrant and satisfying meal perfect for any occasion. The risk-taking courage of combining barley with classic risotto elements results in a rich and textured dish that's not only visually appealing but also a treat for the taste buds. Each ingredient plays its role perfectly from the nutty barley to the aromatic garlic and onions, and the rich Parmesan cheese. Paired with a glass of your favorite white wine, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends. Additionally, this recipe offers nourishing benefits, providing a hearty dose of fiber, vitamins, and proteins. With its simple elegance, beet and goat cheese barley risotto can be the centerpiece of a wholesome weeknight dinner or a special gathering. The finishing touch of goat cheese and beet sprouts adds a sophisticated flair, enhancing both the taste and presentation. Even beginners can master this dish by following the detailed steps provided. Get ready to enjoy a gourmet experience from the comfort of your home, with every bite bursting with goodness and flavor.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

500 g fresh beets, peeled
750 ml meat or vegetable broth
250 g barley
150 ml favorite white wine
30 g butter
2 onions
3 cloves garlic
50 g grated Parmesan cheese
Salt (to taste)
100 g goat cheese, crumbled
Beet sprouts (for serving)

Preparation Time

Total Time: 4 hours (Preparation: 3 hours, Cooking: 1 hour)

Step-by-Step Instruction

Soak the Barley: Pour water over the barley and soak for 2 hours. Once soaked, rinse thoroughly under running water.
Prepare the Beets: Peel the beets and cut them into approximately 2 cm thick slices. Arrange them on a baking tray and roast in a preheated oven at 180°C for about an hour, until fully tender.
Sauté Aromatics: In a pan, melt the butter and sauté the finely chopped onions and minced garlic cloves until golden brown.
Cook the Barley: Add the drained barley to the sautéed onions and garlic, lightly sauté for a few minutes.
Deglaze with Wine: Pour in the white wine, let it simmer over medium heat until almost evaporated.
Add Broth Gradually: Pour about a fifth of the broth over the barley, letting it absorb while simmering. Repeat this process gradually, adding more broth each time the previous addition has been absorbed, for about 40 minutes.
Prepare the Beets: Using a fork, mash the roasted beets until smooth and set aside.
Complete the Risotto: When the barley is tender and fully cooked, stir in the mashed beets, grated Parmesan cheese, and adjust the seasoning with salt to taste.
Serve: Transfer the barley risotto to plates, sprinkle with crumbled goat cheese and garnish with beet sprouts.
Enjoy: Serve immediately for the best taste and texture.

Tips

For a Creamier Texture: Stirring continuously while adding broth helps the barley release more starch, creating a creamier consistency.
Substitution: Vegetable broth can replace meat broth for a vegetarian option.
Wine Option: If you prefer non-alcoholic, simply replace white wine with additional broth.

Nutritions

Calories: 450 per serving
Protein: 12g
Fats: 18g
Carbs: 58g

Variations

Vegan Option: Replace butter and cheese with plant-based alternatives to cater to vegan diets.
Different Cheese: Swap goat cheese with feta or blue cheese for distinct flavors.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a crisp green salad and a chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc.
Serve with crusty bread for a rustic, comforting meal.

Best Places

The Beet Kitchen - A cozy spot celebrating root vegetables in delightful dishes. Location: 123 Greenway Drive, Chicago, USA.
Risotto Rustico - Known for its authentic risotto offerings with a twist. Location: 45 Via Roma, Rome, Italy.
Barley N Bliss - Specializing in barley dishes that amaze every palate. Location: 89 Down St, London, UK.
La Cuisine Provençale - Combines traditional techniques with modern flair. Location: 12 Rue de France, Nice, France.
Bistro Beets & Barley - Offers a fusion of flavors for every enthusiast. Location: 155 Beach Rd, Sydney, Australia.
Goat & Gather - Sought-after for its creative use of goat cheese. Location: 678 Yonge St, Toronto, Canada.
Bites of Tuscany - As charming as its dishes, a true taste of Italy. Location: 22 Strada Degli Orti, Florence, Italy.
The Gourmet Goat - Delightfully surprising goat cheese creations. Location: 34 Goat Way, Cape Town, South Africa.
Nordic Barley Crafts - Upscale, yet warmly inviting with Nordic roots. Location: 81 Fjord St, Oslo, Norway.
Harvest & Hearth - Known for hearth-cooked plentitude. Location: 742 Fields Rd, Portland, USA.