Alton Brown Baked Barley Recipe

Alton Brown Baked Barley Recipe is made with hulled barley, unsalted butter, kosher salt, and boiling water. This recipe creates a warm, tender baked barley side dish. It takes about 1 hour and 5 minutes to prepare and serves 4 to 6.

Alton Brown Baked Barley Recipe Ingredients

• 1 cup hulled barley
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 2 cups boiling water

How To Make Alton Brown Baked Barley Recipe

1. Preheat Oven: Heat your oven to 375ºF.
2. Prepare Baking Dish: Place the barley in a 1 1/2-quart ceramic or glass baking dish with a lid.
3. Add Ingredients: Add the butter, salt, and boiling water to the dish. Stir to combine.
4. Cover and Bake: Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil, then place the lid on top. Bake on the middle rack for 1 hour.
5. Fluff and Serve: Remove the cover, fluff the barley with a fork, and serve immediately.

Recipe Tips

• Use Hulled Barley: This recipe is specifically for hulled barley, which is less processed and has a chewier texture.
• Keep It Covered: Proper sealing with foil and a lid ensures even cooking and prevents moisture loss.
• Use Boiling Water: Adding boiling water helps jumpstart the cooking process and shortens oven time.
• Don’t Overbake: Stick to the hour mark to avoid mushy grains.
• Fluff Before Serving: Fluffing helps separate the grains and enhances texture.

What To Serve With Baked Barley

This baked barley pairs well with roasted chicken, grilled vegetables, or a hearty beef stew. It also complements vegetarian dishes like stuffed peppers or sautéed mushrooms.

How To Store Baked Barley

Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freeze: Cool completely, then freeze in a sealed bag or container for up to 2 months.

Baked Barley Nutrition Facts

• Calories: 170
• Total Fat: 3g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Sugar: 0g
• Protein: 4g
• Sodium: 290mg

FAQs

Can I use pearl barley instead of hulled barley?
Yes, but reduce the baking time slightly as pearl barley cooks faster.

Is it necessary to pre-soak the barley?
No soaking is needed for this recipe since it bakes in sufficient liquid.

Can I add herbs or spices?
Absolutely. Add dried thyme, garlic powder, or bay leaves for extra flavor.

Can I double the recipe?
Yes, but use a larger dish and ensure it’s tightly covered.

Is this dish gluten-free?
No, barley contains gluten.

Try More Recipes:

• Alton Brown Baked Apples Recipe
• Alton Brown Baked Alaska Recipe
• Alton Brown Bacon Recipe