Barley Risotto with Asparagus and Parmesan

Use Barley instead of Arborio Rice

Ingredients

  • 5 c. low-sodium chicken broth
  • 2 Tbls. extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 1 large clove garlic, finely chopped
  • 1-1/2 c. barley (not instant)
  • 1 c. dry white wine (Chardonnay)
  • 1 lb. asparagus, cut diagonally into 1-inch pieces
  • 1/4 t. kosher salt and 1/4 t. black pepper
  • 1/2 c. freshly grated parmesan cheese

Instructions

Warm the broth in a small saucepan over low heat and keep warm.

Meanwhile, heat the oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the onion and cook, stirring occasionally, for 7 minutes or until soft.

Add the garlic and cook 1 minute more.

Add the barley and cook, stirring for 2 minutes. Stir in the wine and cook until liquid is absorbed, about 3 minutes.

Add the broth, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring occasionally and waiting until it is absorbed before adding more.

Add the asparagus with the last 1/2 cup of broth and cook until tender. It should take 30-35 minutes for all the broth to be absorbed.

Remove from heat, season with salt and pepper and stir in the parmesan cheese.