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This Vegan Fennel and Barley Risotto is packed with fresh Spring vegetables and vibrant flavors! Made with pearl barley, fresh fennel, and nutritional yeast, this creamy and hearty dish is both comforting and nutritious. Perfect for vegans and non-vegans alike, it's an easy recipe to throw together for a satisfying meal that everyone will love. Try this wholesome, plant-based risotto for a taste of Spring on your plate!
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Course Brunch, Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4
Calories 250 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup pearl barley
  • 2 large fennel bulbs thinly sliced (fronds reserved for garnish)
  • 1 small onion finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1/4 cup dry white wine optional
  • 4 cups vegetable broth warmed
  • 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley or fennel fronds for garnish

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the Ingredients: Thinly slice the fennel bulbs, finely chop the onion, and mince the garlic.
  • Cook the Fennel and Onion: In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the fennel and onion, and sauté until they are soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
  • Add Garlic and Barley: Add the minced garlic to the pan and cook for another minute. Then, add the pearl barley and stir to coat it with the oil and vegetables.
  • Deglaze with Wine: If using, pour in the white wine and cook until it has mostly evaporated, about 2-3 minutes.
  • Cook the Barley: Gradually add the warmed vegetable broth to the barley mixture, one ladle at a time, stirring frequently. Wait until the liquid is mostly absorbed before adding more. Continue this process until the barley is tender and creamy, about 35-40 minutes.
  • Finish the Risotto: Once the barley is cooked and creamy, stir in the nutritional yeast and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  • Garnish and Serve: Serve the risotto in bowls, garnished with fresh parsley or reserved fennel fronds.

Notes

This Vegan Fennel and Barley Risotto is a delicious and comforting dish that brings together the nutty flavor of barley with the unique taste of fennel, all enhanced by the creamy richness of nutritional yeast. Enjoy!
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