Chicken and Vegetable Barley-otto
Cozy Up with Chicken and Vegetable Barley-otto: A Mediterranean Delight
Looking for a hearty, healthy, and flavourful dinner that’s a little different from the usual? Our Chicken and Vegetable Barley-otto is here to warm your soul! This isn’t your traditional risotto – we’ve swapped Arborio rice for nutty, wholesome pearl barley, creating a dish that’s packed with goodness and incredibly satisfying. Inspired by Mediterranean flavours, this one-pot wonder is perfect for a chilly evening or a comforting family meal.
Barley-otto? What’s the difference?
Great question! While risotto relies on constant stirring to release starch and create a creamy texture, barley-otto is more forgiving. Pearl barley holds its shape beautifully and absorbs the flavours of the broth and vegetables, resulting in a delightfully textured dish. It’s also a fantastic source of fibre, making it a healthier alternative to traditional rice-based dishes.
What makes this recipe special?
- Mediterranean Flavours: We’ve embraced the fresh, vibrant tastes of the Mediterranean with fennel, carrot, and a generous sprinkle of dill.
- One-Pot Simplicity: Minimal washing up – yes, please!
- Nutrient-Packed: Barley, chicken, and a rainbow of vegetables provide a wealth of vitamins and minerals.
- Comfort Food Redefined: This dish is pure comfort in a bowl, perfect for cozy nights in.
Tips for the Perfect Barley-otto:
- Quality Broth: Using a good quality organic chicken bone broth is key to a flavourful dish.
- Don’t Overstir: Unlike risotto, you don’t need to stir constantly. Occasional stirring is enough to prevent sticking.
- Adjust the Liquid: If the barley absorbs all the liquid before it’s cooked, add a little more water or broth.
- Fresh Dill is a Must: The bright, fresh flavour of dill perfectly complements the other ingredients.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: Can I use a different type of barley?
A: While pearl barley is recommended for its texture and cooking time, you could try hulled barley, but it will require a longer cooking time.
Q: Can I make this vegetarian?
A: Absolutely! Simply omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Q: Can I add other vegetables?
A: Definitely! Feel free to add your favourite seasonal vegetables, such as zucchini, spinach, or bell peppers.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Barley-otto is best served fresh, but leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. You may need to add a little liquid when reheating.
We hope you enjoy this delicious and wholesome Chicken and Vegetable Barley-otto! It’s a recipe that’s sure to become a family favourite.
Chicken and Vegetable Barley-otto
Ingredients
- 1 small Fennel bulb
- 1 Onion
- 1 Carrot
- 1 Parsnip
- 2 Celery Sticks
- 1/2 small Cauliflower
- 2 litres Water
- 2 Tbsp Organic Chicken Bone Broth
- 1 1/2 Cup Organic Pearled Barley
- 3 Organic chicken Drumsticks
- To serve Dill
Instructions
- Finely dice fennel and peeled onion, carrot, peeled parsip and celery sticks. Cut cauliflower into florets.
- Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat and sauté onion and fennel for 2 minutes until translucent. Add diced carrot, celery and cook, stirring for a minute.
- Add 2 litres water, organic bone broth powder and cauliflower florets. Bring to a simmer and add the pearl barley and chicken drumsticks.
- Bring to the boil, then cover with a lid, reduce heat to a simmer and cook, occasionally stirring for 35 minutes or until the barley is cooked, and absorb most of the stock
- Take the meat off the drumsticks, shred and add back to the pot. Serve with a sprinkle of dill.
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