Cozy Mushroom Barley Stew

A comforting one-bowl meal, rich with the earthy flavors of sautéed mushrooms and nutty barley, perfect for a chilly evening.

⏱️ Cooking Time: 40 minutes | 🍽️ Servings: 1

Instructions

1. 1.
   Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the sliced button mushrooms and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are golden brown and their moisture has evaporated. This step is crucial for enhancing the earthy flavor of the mushrooms and adding depth to the stew.
2. 2.
   Add the pearl barley to the saucepan and stir to coat it in the mushroom-infused oil. Toast the barley for about 2 minutes until the grains are slightly golden. Toasting the barley is important as it adds a nutty flavor and helps prevent the grains from becoming mushy.
3. 3.
   Pour in the vegetable broth and add the dried thyme. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a low simmer. The thyme infuses the stew with its subtle aroma, complementing the mushrooms beautifully.
4. 4.
   Cover the saucepan partially to allow some steam to escape. Let the stew simmer for 25-30 minutes or until the barley is tender but still has a slight chew to it. Stir occasionally to ensure nothing sticks to the bottom of the pan. If the stew becomes too thick, you can add a little more broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
5. 5.
   Season the stew with salt and pepper to taste right before serving. If you find that the flavors need brightening, a small squeeze of lemon can enhance the overall taste without altering the dish's earthiness. Serve warm for a hearty and comforting meal.