Start your day with a burst of flavor and nutrition with our delightful Red Berry Barley Porridge! This vibrant breakfast bowl is not only a feast for the eyes but also a wholesome way to fuel your morning. With its chewy pearl barley, luscious mixed red berries, and a touch of sweetness from honey or maple syrup, this porridge is a delicious twist on your typical breakfast routine. Ready in just 40 minutes, it's the perfect dish to impress your family or indulge in a cozy solo morning. Don't miss out on this heartwarming recipe that will leave you craving more!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Breakfast
Serves: 2 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup pearl barley
- 4 cups water
- 1 cup mixed red berries (strawberries, raspberries, etc.)
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Rinse the pearl barley thoroughly under cold running water to remove any dust or debris, ensuring the water runs clear.
- In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the rinsed barley with 4 cups of water and a pinch of salt. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium-high heat.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan with a tight-fitting lid, and simmer the barley for approximately 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While the barley is cooking, wash and prepare the mixed red berries. If using larger berries like strawberries, slice them into smaller pieces.
- Check the barley for doneness by tasting - it should be tender but still have a slight chewy texture. If the water is absorbed before the barley is cooked, add a little more hot water.
- Once the barley is cooked, remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and honey or maple syrup, mixing thoroughly.
- Gently fold in most of the red berries, reserving some for garnish, allowing them to warm slightly and release their juices.
- Divide the porridge between two serving bowls, topping each with the remaining fresh berries.
- Serve immediately while warm, with additional honey or maple syrup on the side if desired.
Tips
- Rinse Thoroughly: Be sure to rinse the pearl barley well before cooking to remove any impurities and enhance its flavor.
- Adjust Sweetness: Feel free to adjust the amount of honey or maple syrup to suit your taste preferences. You can even use a sugar substitute if you're looking for a healthier option.
- Berry Variations: Experiment with different types of berries based on the season. Blueberries, blackberries, or even chopped peaches can add a unique twist!
- Texture Check: For the perfect texture, keep an eye on the barley as it cooks. It should be tender yet slightly chewy. If you find it’s too firm, simply add a splash of hot water and continue cooking.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve with a dollop of yogurt or a sprinkle of nuts for added creaminess and crunch. This not only enhances the flavor but also boosts the nutritional value.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the barley in advance and store it in the fridge. Just reheat with a splash of water in the morning, add the berries, and enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 55g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 2g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
