Peanut Barley Bake

Tender, but still a bit chewy, this rustic barley dish is a meal in itself. It will feed 6 people a nutritious dinner for a couple of dollars.

Serves 6.

Ingredients:

• 1/4 c margarine or butter
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1 cup celery, finely chopped
• 1 c carrots, peeled and cut in 1/4 inch dice
• 1 c medium pearl barley
• 1/2 c salted roasted peanuts
• 3 3/4 c warm water
• 1 Tbsp vegetarian beef flavored broth and seasoning (such as McKay’s)
• 1/4 c minced fresh parsley or 1 Tbsp dry parsley

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees F.
2. In a large cast iron or other ovenproof skillet over medium heat, melt butter.
3. Saute onion, celery, carrots, barley and nuts until barley is lightly browned (a few minutes).
4. Mix warm water and broth mix together, Add parsley and stir the broth mixture into the barley mixture.
5. Bake uncovered 60-65 minutes, or until barley is tender and liquid is absorbed.