Creamy Mushroom Barley Risotto

Name: Creamy Mushroom Barley Risotto
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup pearl barley; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion, finely chopped; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced; 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth; 1/2 cup dry white wine; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Fresh parsley for garnish; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love making this Creamy Mushroom Barley Risotto, especially when I want something comforting yet gourmet for dinner. The barley gives the dish a wonderfully chewy texture, while the mushrooms contribute a rich, earthy flavor. Cooking risotto with barley instead of traditional Arborio rice adds a unique twist to the classic recipe. As I stir in the broth and watch the grains absorb that liquid slowly, I can hardly contain my excitement for the deliciousness that is about to unfold.

Created by

Quinn Harper

Last updated on 2026-01-15T15:16:27.813Z

When I first attempted making this risotto, I was amazed by how the barley absorbed all the flavors so beautifully. Instead of the more common rice, barley provides a nutty profile that pairs wonderfully with the sautéed mushrooms and onions. I recommend using fresh herbs when finishing the dish, as they elevate the flavors to a whole new level.

One of my favorite tips is to add a splash of white wine as soon as the barley begins to toast. It not only enhances the taste but gives a lovely depth to the entire dish. Now, whenever I prepare this creamy risotto, it feels like a personal celebration of all the comforting flavors I adore.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich, earthy flavors from fresh mushrooms and herbs
Unique twist with chewy barley instead of rice
Creamy texture enriched with Parmesan cheese
Perfect for cozy dinners or impressing guests

      

The Role of Barley

Using pearl barley in this risotto is not just a matter of replacing Arborio rice; it influences the dish's final texture and flavor profile significantly. Barley has a distinct chewy consistency, lending a heartiness that is often absent in conventional risotto. This chewiness makes each bite satisfying and helps the grains hold on to the creamy sauce, ensuring every forkful is rich and flavorful.

Additionally, barley absorbs flavors better than many other grains. As it cooks, it takes on the savory essence of the broth and additional ingredients, leading to a more nuanced dish. Be attentive while adding stock; this method gradually builds up the dish's flavor layers, enhancing the overall taste experience.

Mushroom Selection Matters

When preparing this risotto, the type of mushrooms you choose can dramatically affect the outcome. For a more intense umami flavor, consider using a mix of shiitake, cremini, or even porcini mushrooms. Each variety brings its unique taste and aroma, enriching the dish with different earthiness. If fresh mushrooms are unavailable, dried mushrooms rehydrated in warm water can be a flavorful substitute.

It's essential to ensure the mushrooms are properly sautéed. Cooking them until golden brown not only releases their natural moisture but also intensifies their flavor. This step is crucial; avoid rushing it, as undercooked mushrooms can be rubbery and less flavorful.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create your delicious risotto:

Ingredients

1 cup pearl barley
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
1/2 cup dry white wine
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley for garnish
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to have everything ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps for a perfect risotto:

Sauté vegetables

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms, cooking until the mushrooms have released their moisture and are golden brown.

Toast the barley

Add the pearl barley to the pot and stir for 2-3 minutes until it's lightly toasted. This step adds depth to the flavor of the dish.

Deglaze with wine

Pour in the white wine and cook until it's mostly absorbed, scraping up any bits stuck to the bottom of the pot.

Add broth gradually

Begin adding the broth one ladle at a time, stirring frequently. Allow the barley to absorb the liquid before adding more. Repeat this process for about 25 minutes or until the barley is tender but still chewy.

Finish with cheese

Once the barley is cooked, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, adding salt and pepper to taste. If desired, you can add more broth for a creamier texture.

Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm. Enjoy the creamy goodness!

Serve hot for the best experience!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider finishing the risotto with a drizzle of truffle oil. It elevates the dish even further into gourmet territory.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This Creamy Mushroom Barley Risotto can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. As it sits, the barley may continue to absorb moisture, thickening the risotto. If you find it too dry upon reheating, add a splash of broth or water to restore creaminess when warming it on the stove over medium heat. Stir frequently to prevent sticking and achieve an even temperature.

For long-term storage, consider freezing portions in freezer-safe bags or containers. It can last up to three months in the freezer. To reheat, let it thaw overnight in the fridge and then gently warm it on the stove, adding additional liquid as necessary to regain that creamy texture.

Variations to Try

Feel free to customize this risotto to suit your tastes or dietary preferences. For a vegan twist, substitute the Parmesan with nutritional yeast or a vegan cheese alternative, and use vegetable broth. You can also incorporate seasonal vegetables like spinach, asparagus, or peas during the final stages of cooking for added color and nutrition.

Another variation involves adding protein, such as cooked chicken, shrimp, or sautéed tofu, to make it a complete meal. If you're looking to spice things up, try incorporating a dash of red pepper flakes or some sautéed leeks for an extra flavor kick. Each of these options provides a unique take on the dish while keeping the essence of creamy mushroom barley risotto intact.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use quick-cooking barley?

While quick-cooking barley can be used, the texture may not be as chewy as pearl barley. Adjust cooking time if necessary.

→ Is there a vegan version of this recipe?

Absolutely! Just omit the Parmesan cheese or use a vegan alternative and ensure your broth is vegetarian.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat with a splash of broth to bring back creaminess.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Yes! Feel free to incorporate your favorite vegetables, like spinach, peas, or asparagus, for added nutrients and flavor.