Barley is a great substitute for Arborio rice when making risotto. This is a simple recipe that uses chicken stock, mushrooms and thyme.
Something else. I liked the flavour but the second time, I changed a few things. I melted 3tsp of butter and added the barley stirring until it turned a nut brown colour, then added onions and the mushrooms for 5 min and then used beef stock instead. Nice flavour. - 29 Sep 2008
I tried this recipe as I absolutely detest risotto using arborio rice, something about the texture and heaviness about it. So I decided to try it with barley and it was so much better. I used beef stock, and cut out the oil and butter completely and it still worked out. - 31 May 2009
We really liked this. I added a small chilli and some grated ginger to lift the flavour and always use a variety of mushrooms. I also substitute rapeseed oil for the butter and olive oil to keep this even more heart healthy. A family favourite - 09 May 2012