Barley and Mushroom Bean Dish

Ingredients and Weight:

• Barley: 200 grams
• Fresh Mushrooms: 150 grams
• Beans (e.g., green beans or snap beans): 200 grams
• Extra virgin olive oil: 3 tablespoons
• Salt: 1 teaspoon
• Black pepper: 1/2 teaspoon
• Chicken broth or stock: 1 cup
• Fresh thyme or oregano: 1 tablespoon (chopped)
• Onion: 1 small (chopped)

Preparation Time:

• Preparation Time: 30 minutes
• Cooking Time: 45 minutes

Difficulty Level:

Level 3 (Moderate difficulty)

Preparation Method Steps:

1. Prepare the barley by rinsing and draining well.
2. In a large pot, bring chicken broth to a boil and add the barley. Reduce heat, cover, and let it simmer for 20 minutes.
3. While the barley is cooking, clean and slice the mushrooms.
4. Prepare the beans by removing any tough strings and cutting into 1-inch pieces.
5. In a separate pan, heat olive oil and add chopped onions. Saute until softened.
6. Add the mushrooms and cook for 3-4 minutes until they start to release their juices.
7. Stir in the beans and cook for another 5 minutes.
8. When the barley is almost done, add the mushroom-bean mixture to the pot and mix well.
9. Season with salt and black pepper, and fresh herbs of your choice (e.g., thyme or oregano).
10. Let it simmer for another 10 minutes until all flavors are combined and the dish is fully cooked.
11. Serve hot with a side of your choice (e.g., steamed rice or quinoa).

Nutritional Information: (per serving, assuming equal distribution among 8 people)

• Calories: 250
• Fat: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Protein: 12g
• Fiber: 7g

Dish Characteristics:

• This dish combines the rich flavors of barley, mushrooms, and beans, creating a hearty and satisfying meal.
• The dish has a rich, earthy taste that Americans often enjoy in their cuisine.
• It's a great source of fiber and protein, making it a healthy option for all occasions.

User Comments:

• "The combination of flavors was amazing! The dish was hearty and filling."
• "I loved the use of barley in this dish, it added a unique texture and flavor."
• "The dish was well-balanced, with the perfect amount of seasoning and herbs."

Special Precautions and Tips:

• Barley may require different cooking times depending on its freshness and variety, so adjust accordingly.
• If using dried mushrooms, soak them beforehand to ensure they are fully rehydrated.
• Adjust seasoning according to your taste, adding more salt or pepper if needed.