Barley Orzotto with Chickpeas, Anchovies, and Salted Ricotta

17/11/2023

Orzotto is a variant of risotto where barley is used instead of rice. The addition of chickpeas, anchovies, and salted ricotta gives a dish with a rustic flavor full of nuances. Here is the recipe for barley orzotto with chickpeas, anchovies, and salted ricotta.

Ingredients

200 g of pearl barley
1 can of chickpeas (about 400 g), preferably already cooked
50 g of anchovies in oil
1 clove of garlic
1 sprig of rosemary
100 g of salted ricotta
500 ml of vegetable broth
Extra virgin olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation

In a large pot, heat a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and sauté the garlic until it becomes golden. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can remove it after sautéing.
Add the anchovies and let them melt over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
Add the pearl barley to the pot and toast it slightly for a couple of minutes, being careful not to burn it.
Pour in the chickpeas and mix well.
Deglaze with a bit of vegetable broth and add the rosemary. Continue cooking the orzotto by adding hot broth little by little as the barley absorbs it, continuing for about 15-20 minutes or until the barley is cooked but still al dente.
When the orzotto is almost ready, season with salt and pepper to taste.
Remove the sprig of rosemary and turn off the heat. Add a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and stir.
Serve the orzotto hot, finishing each dish with flakes of freshly grated salted ricotta.

Curiosity

Orzotto is a traditional dish in northern Italian cuisine, especially in mountain regions like Trentino-Alto Adige where barley is a widely used cereal. The addition of anchovies gives a savory note that goes well with the sweetness of the chickpeas and the strong flavor of the salted ricotta.

If you don’t have salted ricotta, you might consider using Parmesan or another aged cheese of your preference as an alternative. The important thing is that the cheese adds a savory note to balance the dish’s other ingredients. Enjoy your meal!