Joan Eckersell'S Barley Casserole
A hearty barley casserole with mushrooms and almonds, infused with savory onion soup flavor, perfect for wholesome family meals or vegetarian gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute chopped onions in butter until tender.
- Add pearl barley and transfer to a casserole dish.
- Stir in mushrooms with juice, slivered almonds, onion soup mix, and chicken broth.
- Cover and bake at 350°F for 45 minutes to 1 hour until all liquid is absorbed.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, you can substitute the pearl barley with quinoa or farro if preferred. If you want to add more flavor, consider incorporating sautéed garlic or herbs like thyme. You can also use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option. To enhance the dish's creaminess, a splash of cream or a sprinkle of cheese before baking can elevate the flavors.
Serving Suggestions
This barley casserole pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. You might also enjoy it alongside roasted chicken or as a hearty side dish for holiday gatherings. For an added crunch, sprinkle some extra slivered almonds on top just before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place in the microwave or oven until warmed through, adding a splash of chicken broth if it seems dry. This dish also freezes well; just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Joan Eckersell'S Barley Casserole contains roughly 875 calories, with 22g protein, 110g carbohydrates, and 42g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (87% of the Daily Value), protein (44% of the Daily Value), and iron (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and calcium. It also contributes 24g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator. Just remember to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if cooking straight from the fridge. This makes it perfect for busy days or special occasions.
Can I use a different type of mushroom?
Yes, feel free to use fresh mushrooms or any type of canned mushrooms you prefer. If using fresh, sauté them briefly with the onions to release their moisture and enhance their flavor. This flexibility allows you to customize the dish to your taste.
Is this casserole suitable for gluten-free diets?
Unfortunately, traditional pearl barley contains gluten. However, you can substitute it with gluten-free grains like quinoa or brown rice to make this casserole gluten-free. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as different grains have varying cooking requirements.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).