29+ Nutritious & Hearty Crockpot Barley Recipes for Every Occasion

If you’re looking for delicious and healthy meals that are easy to make, look no further than your crockpot!

One of the most versatile ingredients you can use is barley, a whole grain that’s not only hearty and filling but also packed with fiber and essential nutrients.

Whether you’re craving a savory soup, a flavorful casserole, or a hearty grain-based salad, barley can be the star of your crockpot creations.

With a crockpot, you can simply set it, forget it, and come back to a delicious, nutritious meal.

In this article, we’ve compiled 29+ mouthwatering crockpot barley recipes that are perfect for any occasion.

From comforting soups to zesty stir-fries, these recipes will make you love barley even more.

So, grab your crockpot and get ready to explore the versatility of barley with these easy and healthy recipes!

29+ Nutritious & Hearty Crockpot Barley Recipes for Every Occasion

Barley is truly a kitchen staple, and with the help of your trusty crockpot, it can become the base of many flavorful and nourishing dishes.

Whether you’re preparing a quick meal for your family or planning a meal prep session for the week ahead, these 29+ crockpot barley recipes offer a variety of options that are as delicious as they are nutritious.

From hearty stews and soups to savory casseroles and salads, there’s no limit to the ways you can enjoy barley in the crockpot.

The beauty of crockpot cooking lies in its simplicity, and with these recipes, you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying wholesome meals with your loved ones.

So, what are you waiting for?

Grab your crockpot, pick a recipe, and start cooking!

Hearty Vegetable Barley Soup

This comforting, nutrient-rich soup is perfect for chilly days. Loaded with fresh vegetables, tender barley, and aromatic spices, this dish is a wholesome and satisfying meal the whole family will love. Easy to prepare and even better as leftovers, it’s a fantastic addition to your meal rotation.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup pearl barley
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 2 cups water
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
• 1 cup chopped spinach or kale
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Rinse the barley under cold water and set aside.
2. In a crockpot, combine the barley, vegetable broth, water, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, and tomatoes.
3. Add thyme, basil, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
4. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the barley is tender.
5. Stir in the spinach or kale 30 minutes before serving. Adjust seasoning as needed.

This soup is a hearty, nourishing bowl of goodness that only gets better the next day as flavors meld. Serve with crusty bread for a complete meal.

Slow Cooker Barley and Beef Stew

Rich and flavorful, this barley and beef stew is the epitome of comfort food. Tender chunks of beef, chewy barley, and a medley of vegetables come together in a savory broth that will make your taste buds dance.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb beef stew meat, cubed
• 1 cup pearl barley
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 cup water
• 2 potatoes, diced
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup peas (fresh or frozen)
• 1 tsp dried rosemary
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the beef cubes on all sides and transfer to the crockpot.
2. Add barley, beef broth, water, potatoes, carrots, onion, and garlic.
3. Stir in rosemary, thyme, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
4. Cover and cook on low for 8-9 hours or high for 4-5 hours, until the beef is tender and barley is cooked.
5. Add peas 30 minutes before the end of cooking.

This stew is a robust, hearty meal that will warm your soul. It pairs wonderfully with a green salad or buttered rolls.

Creamy Chicken and Barley Casserole

This creamy and satisfying casserole combines tender chicken, hearty barley, and a rich, cheesy sauce. It’s a one-pot wonder that’s easy to prepare and perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cubed
• 1 cup pearl barley
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup milk or cream
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Combine the barley, chicken, chicken broth, mushrooms, and onion in the crockpot.
2. Stir in garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Once the barley and chicken are tender, stir in the milk and shredded cheese. Cook for an additional 20-30 minutes until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

This casserole is the ultimate comfort dish, offering a creamy, cheesy, and satisfying experience. It’s best served with steamed vegetables or a crisp green salad for a balanced meal.

Barley and Lentil Chili

This hearty barley and lentil chili is a vegetarian delight packed with protein and fiber. With a bold combination of spices and rich flavors, it’s perfect for anyone looking for a filling, comforting, and healthy meal. The best part is that it’s a set-it-and-forget-it crockpot dish.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup pearl barley
• 1 cup dried lentils, rinsed
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

1. In your crockpot, add barley, lentils, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, kidney beans, onion, bell pepper, and garlic.
2. Sprinkle cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper over the ingredients and stir.
3. Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the barley and lentils are tender.
4. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

This chili is a perfect plant-based meal that offers a burst of flavors. Serve it with tortilla chips or over a bed of rice for a complete and filling meal.

Crockpot Mushroom Barley Risotto

This mushroom barley risotto offers a deliciously creamy texture and earthy flavors without the constant stirring typically required in traditional risotto. It’s easy to prepare and makes a delightful side dish or even a main course.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup pearl barley
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup sliced mushrooms
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the onions, garlic, and mushrooms until softened.
2. Transfer the mixture to your crockpot, adding the barley, vegetable broth, and thyme.
3. If using, add the white wine and stir. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the barley is tender.
4. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and heavy cream just before serving. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

This dish brings the creaminess and richness of a traditional risotto without the labor, making it perfect for a hands-off meal. It’s excellent as a vegetarian main dish or a side to roasted meats.

Chicken, Barley, and Sweet Potato Stew

A healthy and hearty stew, this recipe combines tender chicken, nutritious sweet potatoes, and fiber-rich barley. The slight sweetness of the potatoes perfectly complements the savory flavors, making it an irresistible dish.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb chicken breasts, diced
• 1 cup pearl barley
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 2 sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp ground turmeric
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Combine the chicken, barley, chicken broth, sweet potatoes, carrots, onion, and garlic in your crockpot.
2. Add cumin, turmeric, cinnamon, salt, and pepper, stirring to combine.
3. Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours, until the chicken and barley are tender.
4. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

This stew is the perfect balance of sweetness, savory flavors, and nourishment. It’s great served on its own or with a side of crusty bread for a complete meal.

Barley and Beef Stuffed Peppers

These barley and beef stuffed peppers are a fun and flavorful way to enjoy the goodness of barley. The savory beef mixture, combined with hearty barley and vegetables, makes these stuffed peppers both filling and satisfying.

Ingredients:

• 4 large bell peppers, tops cut off and seeds removed
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 cup cooked barley
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)

Instructions:

1. Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, cooking until softened.
2. Stir in the cooked barley, diced tomatoes, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Stuff the mixture into each bell pepper.
4. Place the stuffed peppers in the crockpot, cover, and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the peppers are tender.
5. If desired, sprinkle mozzarella cheese over the peppers 15 minutes before serving, and let it melt.

These stuffed peppers are a fun, customizable meal that combines the heartiness of barley with the deliciousness of seasoned beef. They’re great for meal prep and perfect for serving at family gatherings.

Barley and Sausage Casserole

This barley and sausage casserole brings together the bold flavors of sausage with the chewiness of barley, creating a savory and satisfying dish. It’s an easy-to-make, hearty meal for busy nights.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
• 1 cup pearl barley
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions:

1. Brown the sausage in a skillet over medium heat. Once cooked, transfer it to the crockpot.
2. Add the barley, chicken broth, onion, bell pepper, garlic, and diced tomatoes.
3. Stir in Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
4. Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the barley is tender.
5. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

This casserole is the ultimate one-pot meal, combining savory sausage with hearty barley. It’s perfect for a filling, comforting dinner, and the leftovers are just as delicious!

Spicy Barley and Black Bean Tacos

For a fun twist on taco night, these spicy barley and black bean tacos are flavorful and filling. The combination of chewy barley, hearty black beans, and spicy seasonings is sure to satisfy your craving for Mexican food.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup pearl barley
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup vegetable broth
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1/2 tsp cumin
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Tortillas, for serving
• Toppings: salsa, avocado, cilantro, lime wedges

Instructions:

1. Add barley, black beans, vegetable broth, onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the crockpot.
2. Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the barley is tender.
4. Warm the tortillas and fill with the barley and black bean mixture. Top with salsa, avocado, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime.

These tacos are a fun, flavorful, and healthier alternative to traditional taco fillings. They’re perfect for a quick weeknight dinner and customizable with your favorite toppings.

Barley and Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breasts

These tender chicken breasts stuffed with a hearty mixture of barley, spinach, and cheese make a deliciously satisfying meal. The combination of lean protein and fiber-packed barley makes this dish both filling and nutritious.

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup cooked pearl barley
• 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil for searing

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, combine the cooked barley, spinach, mozzarella, Parmesan, garlic, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
3. Slice a pocket into each chicken breast and stuff with the barley mixture.
4. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden.
5. Transfer the chicken to a baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and the stuffing is hot.

This dish is a flavorful and nutritious option that elevates the simple chicken breast. Pair it with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.

Barley and White Bean Soup

This simple yet satisfying soup combines barley, white beans, and vegetables in a savory broth. It’s a perfect meal for a cozy evening and is full of fiber and plant-based protein, making it both filling and heart-healthy.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup pearl barley
• 2 cans (15 oz each) white beans (cannellini or great northern), drained and rinsed
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Combine the barley, white beans, vegetable broth, carrots, celery, onion, and garlic in the crockpot.
2. Add thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
3. Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours, until the barley is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
4. Remove the bay leaf and adjust seasoning if necessary. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

This soup is a wonderfully hearty and healthy dish that’s perfect for meal prepping or feeding a crowd. It’s rich in fiber, making it both filling and nutritious.

Barley and Shrimp Paella

A twist on the traditional Spanish dish, this barley and shrimp paella offers all the flavors of the classic without the need for expensive rice. It’s a quick and easy version that’s packed with seafood, vegetables, and spices.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup pearl barley
• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 cups seafood broth
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 cup frozen peas
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp saffron (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions:

1. In your crockpot, combine barley, seafood broth, onion, bell pepper, garlic, peas, and diced tomatoes.
2. Sprinkle paprika, saffron (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
3. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the barley is cooked and the flavors have melded.
4. In the last 30 minutes of cooking, add the shrimp and cook until pink and fully cooked through.
5. Serve with lemon wedges for an added burst of flavor.

This easy paella is a light and flavorful dish that showcases the sweetness of shrimp and the heartiness of barley. It’s a great alternative to the traditional paella while still delivering a satisfying meal.

Barley and Kale Salad with Lemon Dressing

This vibrant salad combines chewy barley with fresh kale, creating a refreshing and healthy side dish. A simple lemon dressing brings everything together, making this salad perfect for a light lunch or as a side for grilled meats.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cooked pearl barley
• 2 cups kale, chopped
• 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp honey
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the cooked barley, chopped kale, cucumber, red onion, and feta cheese.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, honey, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until well combined.
4. Serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

This salad is light yet filling, thanks to the fiber from barley and the nutritious kale. It’s perfect for a healthy, vibrant meal and pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish.

Barley and Vegetable Stir-Fry

This colorful stir-fry is a quick and easy way to enjoy barley alongside fresh vegetables. It’s a nutritious and satisfying dish that works well as a main course or a side to your favorite protein.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cooked pearl barley
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 bell pepper, sliced
• 1 carrot, julienned
• 1 onion, sliced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 1 tsp ground ginger
• 1 tsp rice vinegar
• Sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat.
2. Add the garlic, onion, bell pepper, carrot, and broccoli, and stir-fry for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
3. Stir in the cooked barley, soy sauce, ginger, and rice vinegar. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring to combine.
4. Garnish with sesame seeds before serving.

This stir-fry is a quick and easy way to enjoy a deliciously healthy meal. It’s versatile, so feel free to add other vegetables or your favorite protein for an even more filling dish.

Barley and Tomato Gratin

This savory gratin layers tender barley with tomatoes and a cheesy topping, creating a comforting, baked dish. The combination of barley’s chewiness and the richness of melted cheese makes it a perfect side dish for any dinner.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cooked pearl barley
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a baking dish, layer the cooked barley and halved cherry tomatoes.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. In a small bowl, combine the Parmesan, mozzarella, and breadcrumbs. Sprinkle the mixture over the barley and tomatoes.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the cheese is melted and golden.
6. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

This barley and tomato gratin is a simple, satisfying dish that’s great as a side or a vegetarian main course. It’s the perfect balance of creamy cheese and hearty grains.

Barley and Chicken Cacciatore

This hearty twist on a classic Italian chicken cacciatore combines the flavors of tomatoes, olives, and herbs with chewy barley for a filling and satisfying meal. It’s an easy crockpot dish that’s perfect for a comforting dinner.

Ingredients:

• 4 chicken thighs, bone-in, skinless
• 1 cup pearl barley
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. In your crockpot, combine the chicken thighs, pearl barley, diced tomatoes, onion, bell pepper, garlic, olives, and chicken broth.
2. Stir in oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
3. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and the barley is fully cooked.
4. Remove the chicken from the crockpot, shred it with a fork, and return it to the mixture.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

This chicken cacciatore with barley is a unique and delicious take on a classic dish. The barley soaks up all the savory flavors, making it a perfect match for the tender chicken. Serve it with a side of roasted vegetables or a simple salad.

Barley and Roasted Veggie Buddha Bowl

This vibrant, nourishing bowl is packed with roasted vegetables, barley, and a flavorful dressing. It’s a perfect meal for meal prepping and can be customized with your favorite veggies.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cooked pearl barley
• 2 cups mixed vegetables (sweet potatoes, zucchini, bell peppers, cauliflower, etc.), cubed
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup hummus (optional)
• 1/4 cup tahini dressing (or lemon dressing)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss the cubed vegetables with olive oil, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet.
3. Roast the vegetables for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and tender.
4. In a bowl, layer the cooked barley and roasted vegetables.
5. Drizzle with tahini dressing or hummus, and serve immediately.

This Buddha bowl is a nourishing, nutrient-dense meal that combines grains, veggies, and healthy fats. It’s not only delicious but also customizable with your favorite vegetables and toppings.

Barley and Pesto-Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms

These pesto-stuffed Portobello mushrooms are a flavorful vegetarian dish, combining the richness of barley with the bright flavors of basil pesto. It’s an easy recipe that’s perfect for a light dinner or as an appetizer.

Ingredients:

• 4 large Portobello mushrooms, stems removed
• 1 cup cooked pearl barley
• 1/2 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Brush the mushroom caps with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Place them on a baking sheet.
3. In a bowl, mix the cooked barley with the basil pesto and Parmesan cheese.
4. Stuff each mushroom cap with the barley mixture.
5. Bake for 20 minutes until the mushrooms are tender and the stuffing is golden.
6. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

These stuffed mushrooms are a great vegetarian alternative to traditional stuffed dishes. The combination of barley and pesto gives them a savory depth of flavor that’s hard to resist.

Barley and Chicken Stir-Fry

A quick and healthy stir-fry, this dish combines tender chicken, colorful vegetables, and chewy barley, all tossed in a savory sauce. It’s an easy one-pan meal that’s perfect for a busy weeknight.

Ingredients:

• 2 chicken breasts, thinly sliced
• 1 cup cooked pearl barley
• 1 bell pepper, sliced
• 1 carrot, julienned
• 1 zucchini, sliced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp oyster sauce
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 1 tsp ginger, minced
• Sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes, until golden and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the garlic, bell pepper, carrot, and zucchini. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
4. Add the cooked barley, soy sauce, oyster sauce, and ginger. Stir well to combine.
5. Return the chicken to the skillet and toss everything together. Cook for another 2-3 minutes.
6. Garnish with sesame seeds before serving.

This barley and chicken stir-fry is a simple, satisfying dish that’s quick to prepare and packed with flavor. It’s great for meal prep and can be enjoyed with a variety of vegetables.

Barley and Beef Meatballs in Tomato Sauce

These juicy beef meatballs are made with barley, which adds a lovely texture and nutritional boost. They’re simmered in a rich tomato sauce, making them a hearty and comforting meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1/2 cup cooked pearl barley
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, cooked barley, egg, breadcrumbs, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.
3. Form the mixture into meatballs and place them on a baking sheet.
4. Bake the meatballs for 15-20 minutes, until browned and cooked through.
5. In a large saucepan, heat the marinara sauce over medium heat. Add the meatballs and simmer for 10-15 minutes.
6. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

These meatballs are a delicious twist on the classic, with the barley providing a nice texture and making them extra filling. Serve them over pasta, rice, or alongside a green salad for a complete meal.

Barley and Sweet Corn Chowder

This creamy and comforting chowder combines barley with sweet corn and a rich, velvety broth. It’s perfect for a cozy evening meal and can be enjoyed as a starter or main dish.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup pearl barley
• 2 cups sweet corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 medium potato, diced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup milk or cream
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. In your crockpot, combine the barley, corn, vegetable broth, potato, onion, and garlic.
2. Stir in thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the barley and potatoes are tender.
4. Stir in milk or cream and cook for an additional 20 minutes.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

This chowder is the epitome of comfort food, with sweet corn and barley blending together perfectly in a rich, creamy base. It’s a warm, satisfying dish perfect for cooler weather.

Note: More recipes are coming soon!