Toasted Breakfast Barley with Dried Fruit
Warm up your mornings with a bowl of Toasted Breakfast Barley with Dried Fruit, a wholesome, nutrient-packed recipe that perfectly blends nutty, toasted pearled barley with the natural sweetness of dried cranberries and apricots. This dish begins with a unique toasting technique that infuses the barley with a rich, golden flavor before simmering it into creamy perfection with milk, honey (or maple syrup), and aromatic cinnamon. Chopped nuts and a drizzle of syrup add optional crunch and sweetness, making this hearty recipe ideal for cozy weekends or busy weekdays. With simple prep and an irresistible combination of textures, flavors, and nourishing ingredients, this breakfast bowl is a satisfying way to start your day. Perfect for fans of healthy recipes, whole grains, and customizable morning meals!
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Ingredients
- 1 cup pearled barley
- 3 cups water
- 1 cup milk (or non-dairy alternative)
- 1 cup dried cranberries
- 1 cup dried apricots (chopped)
- 2 tablespoons honey (or maple syrup)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 pinch salt
- 1 tablespoon butter (or vegan butter)
- 1 quarter cup chopped nuts (such as almonds or pecans, optional)
Directions
Step 1
Begin by rinsing the pearled barley under cold water to remove any impurities. Set aside to drain.
Step 2
In a medium-sized skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the rinsed barley and toast it, stirring frequently, for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes golden and fragrant.
Step 3
In a saucepan, bring 3 cups of water to a boil. Add the toasted barley, a pinch of salt, and stir. Reduce the heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for 20 minutes, or until most of the water is absorbed.
Step 4
While the barley is simmering, chop the dried apricots into bite-sized pieces if not already done. Combine the apricots and cranberries in a small bowl.
Step 5
Once the barley has absorbed most of the water, stir in the milk, honey (or maple syrup), cinnamon, and vanilla extract. Mix well and cook for an additional 5 minutes over low heat until the mixture is creamy and the barley is fully cooked.
Step 6
Add the dried fruit mixture to the cooked barley and stir to combine. If using chopped nuts, sprinkle them over the top at this stage.
Step 7
Remove the barley from the heat, cover, and let it rest for 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Step 8
Scoop the toasted barley into serving bowls and optionally drizzle with additional honey or maple syrup for extra sweetness. Serve warm and enjoy your hearty breakfast!
Nutrition Facts
| Serving size | (1669.4g) |
|---|
| Amount per serving | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|
| Calories | 2795.0 |
| Total Fat 99.7g | 0% |
| Saturated Fat 16.9g | 0% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat 0g | |
| Cholesterol 51.0mg | 0% |
| Sodium 352.7mg | 0% |
| Total Carbohydrate 462.0g | 0% |
| Dietary Fiber 68.9g | 0% |
| Total Sugars 253.0g | |
| Protein 55.0g | 0% |
| Vitamin D 131.0IU | 0% |
| Calcium 732.9mg | 0% |
| Iron 13.9mg | 0% |
| Potassium 3630.4mg | 0% |
Source of Calories