Brian in the Kitchen Recipes
BRIAN IN THE KITCHEN brought to you by Stittsworth Meats
May 1 2025
On A Budget - Barley Risotto With Ham and Mushrooms
Image From foodnetwork.com
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 medium shallots, sliced
1 1/2 cups quick-cooking barley
1 teaspoon fennel seeds (optional)
Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper
10 ounces cremini or white button mushrooms, sliced
1/2 teaspoon minced fresh rosemary
1/2 cup dry white wine
2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1 cup diced ham steak
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat, then add the shallots and cook until just soft, about 2 minutes. Add the barley and fennel seeds (if using), 1/4 teaspoon salt, and pepper to taste and cook, stirring, until the barley is lightly toasted, about 4 minutes. Add the mushrooms, rosemary and wine and cook, stirring, until the mushrooms are soft and the wine is absorbed, about 3 minutes.
Add the chicken broth and bring to a simmer; cover, reduce the heat to medium low and cook until the barley is tender and almost all of the liquid is absorbed, 8 to 10 minutes. Stir in the ham, parmesan and parsley. Season with salt and pepper.