- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup pearl barley
- 1 cup frozen peas, thawed
- 1/2 cup pecans, toasted and chopped
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley leaves
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh mint leaves
- 2 teaspoons freshly grated lemon zest
- In a large heavy saucepan cook onion in butter over moderate heat, stirring, until softened. Add 2 cups broth, water, and barley and simmer, covered, until most of liquid is absorbed and barley is al dente, about 30 minutes. Gradually add remaining cup broth, about 1/4 cup at a time, stirring constantly and letting each addition be absorbed before adding next, until absorbed. Stir in remaining ingredients and remove pan from heat. Season “risotto” with salt and pepper.