Barley

This luxurious soup soothes on a wintry day, warming the palate with rich duck confit, sweet root vegetables, and earthy barley. Pearl barley, by definition, has had some of its bran removed, but we found that different brands varied widely. Higher-fiber varieties will have a slightly longer cooking time.

An old-fashioned drink that was traditionally given to children.

Barley replaces rice in this twist on the classic Italian risotto.

This recipe can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Portobello and button mushrooms, along with herbs and garlic, enhance a creamy dish-which has no cream.

A perfect side dish for tuna or chicken.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less. Makes use of the microwave oven.

In this recipe from Rick Tramonto, chef at Tru in Chicago, chewy pearl barley meets silky European butter in an outstanding alternative to arborio rice risotto. For best results, use Parmigiano-Reggiano.

Risotto, by definition, is made with rice. But other grains—like the barley in this main-course recipe—can be prepared in the same style with equally terrific results. Toasting the barley enhances its nutty flavor and keeps it from getting soft and mushy.

The 2nd Avenue Deli in New York offers this satisfying soup.