Home

Barley Risotto with Pancetta, Vegetables, and Cheese

17/11/2023

I am pleased to offer you the recipe for a tasty barley risotto with pancetta, vegetables, and cheese, a dish reminiscent of risotto but using barley instead of rice. Here are the ingredients and the procedure to prepare it.

Ingredients

  • 300 g of pearled barley
  • 100 g of diced pancetta
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 1 carrot, diced
  • 1 zucchini, diced
  • 1 liter of vegetable broth
  • 1 glass of dry white wine
  • 100 g of cheese (it can be grated Parmesan or a stringy cheese like fontina), diced or grated
  • Extra virgin olive oil (EVO)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

Preparation

  1. Prepare the vegetable broth and keep it warm on a burner.

  2. In a large saucepan or pan, pour a drizzle of EVO oil and brown the diced pancetta until it becomes crispy. Remove the pancetta and set it aside.

  3. In the same pan, add the chopped onion and let it become golden brown.

  4. Add the diced carrots and zucchini and sauté for a couple of minutes over medium heat.

  5. Pour the pearled barley into the pan and toast for a couple of minutes, until the grains become slightly translucent.

  6. Deglaze with white wine and let the alcohol evaporate.

  7. Start adding the vegetable broth, one ladle at a time, waiting for the barley to almost completely absorb the liquid before adding the next ladle.

  8. Cook the barley, continuing to add broth when necessary, for about 15-20 minutes or until the barley is al dente.

  9. When the barley is almost cooked, put the pancetta back in the pan.

  10. Add the diced or grated cheese and mix well to melt it, adjusting with salt and pepper.

  11. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if you want to add a touch of color and freshness.

Curiosity

The barley risotto is a variation of risotto, very popular especially in the northern regions of Italy, where barley is a highly appreciated cereal. It is a rich and nutritious dish, ideal for colder days and for those who want an alternative to the classic risotto. Pancetta adds a touch of smoky and savory flavor that perfectly matches the sweetness of the vegetables.

Barley Risotto with Pancetta, Vegetables, and Cheese