Whole-Grain Barley with Mushrooms and Chestnuts

In this dish, barley provides steady energy thanks to its slow-release whole-grain carbohydrates, mushrooms contribute with their rich mineral content, and chestnuts add natural energy and fiber, making the recipe both nourishing and well-balanced.
Discover the recipe by Dr. Cinzia Myriam Calabrese, medical nutritionist at UPMC Salvator Mundi International Hospital.
Enjoy!
Ingredients:
- 280 g whole-grain barley.
- 300 g mixed mushrooms.
- 160 g cooked chestnuts, chopped.
- 1 leek.
- 1½ tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil.
- Thyme or rosemary.
- 1 L light vegetable broth.
- Salt and pepper (to taste).
Preparation:
Soften the leek in a little broth, add the mushrooms, and cook for 5 minutes. Add the barley and cook gradually, adding the broth (25-30 minutes). Halfway through cooking, add the chestnuts and herbs. When done, finish with raw olive oil.
Nutritional Information:
- Servings: 4
- Calories (per serving): about 350
- Per serving:
Total fat 5 g, saturated fat 0.8 g, carbohydrates 65 g, sugars 4 g, fiber 9 g, protein 8 g, sodium ≈ 400 mg.