Welcome! I am a self-trained chef with over two decades of diabetic friendly cooking to my name. This blog has over 325 proven recipes and zero advertising. For me it's about helping fellow diabetics & their families eat well... Period. Blessed be... and happy cooking!

Tuesday, September 16, 2025

Lemon Parmesan Barley

I think I've now established that barley has become my go-to grain, not only because of its low glycemic index but also because it matches my flavor pallet and cooking so well. I always look for new ways to use this grain, and recently I came across this little gem on Food.com that will pair quite well with any lemon oriented protein. Enjoy!
Barley is shown here paired with Chicken Gruyere
Ingredients:
  • 3 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup pearl barley - rinsed thoroughly
  • 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tbsp salted butter
  • 1/8 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 cup shaved parmesan cheese
  • 1 tbsp lemon zest
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Preparation:
Combine the broth, oil, butter and pepper in a medium saucepan and bring to a boil. Stir in the barley, cover and bring to a boil. Lower heat and simmer ~35-40 minutes until tender and most liquid is absorbed.
Remove from heat and stir in cheese, lemon zest and parsley.
Cover and let stand for 5 minutes... then fluff with fork and serve.
Barley is shown here paired with Slow Cooker Mediterranean Chicken
The barley also pairs well with Lemon Caper Snapper

Blessed be... and happy cooking!