Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 cup pearl barley
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Special Equipment Needed:
- Large pot
- Baking dish
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. In a large pot, bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Add the barley and cook for 20-25 minutes or until tender. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the butternut squash and cook for 10 minutes or until tender.
5. Add the vegetable broth and heavy cream to the skillet. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes.
6. Add the cooked barley and Parmesan cheese to the skillet. Stir to combine.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
9. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
- Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 1 hour
Temperature:
- Oven temperature: 375°F
Serving size:
- 6 servings
Nutritional information:
- Calories per serving: 370
- Total fat: 19g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Sodium: 420mg
- Total carbohydrates: 44g
- Dietary fiber: 8g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 10g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Instead of pearl barley, you can use farro or quinoa.
- Instead of heavy cream, you can use coconut cream or almond milk.
- Instead of Parmesan cheese, you can use nutritional yeast for a vegan option.
Variations:
- Add cooked chicken or turkey for a protein boost.
- Add chopped kale or spinach for extra nutrition.
- Add chopped walnuts or pecans for crunch.
Tips and Tricks:
- To save time, you can use pre-cut butternut squash.
- Make sure to stir the mixture occasionally to prevent sticking.
- You can make this dish ahead of time and reheat it in the oven before serving.
Storage Instructions:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating Instructions:
- Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
Presentation Ideas:
- Serve in individual ramekins for a fancy presentation.
- Top with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley.
Garnishes:
- Fresh parsley
- Chopped walnuts or pecans
- Additional Parmesan cheese
Pairings:
- Serve with a green salad for a complete meal.
- Pair with a glass of white wine.
Suggested Side Dishes:
- Roasted Brussels sprouts
- Garlic bread
- Grilled asparagus
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the mixture is too dry, add more vegetable broth or heavy cream.
- If the mixture is too wet, bake for an additional 5-10 minutes.
Food Safety Advice:
- Make sure to cook the barley and butternut squash thoroughly.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator within 2 hours of cooking.
Food History:
- Gratin originated in France and is a dish that is baked with a topping of breadcrumbs, cheese, or butter.
Flavor Profiles:
- Creamy
- Savory
- Nutty
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve hot as a main dish or side dish.
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