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  • Recipes

  • Broccoli and Pearl Barley Gratin

Broccoli and Pearl Barley Gratin

Broccoli and Pearl Barley Gratin

By OcadoLifePublished on 19 June 2022This is a vegetarian gratin with a difference. There are two things that make it unique. Firstly, roasting the broccoli adds a slightly nutty note that pairs well with the cheesy sauce. Secondly, rather than using potatoes or pasta as the carbohydrate, here pearl barley is used, which gives the dish a lovely crunchy texture. We’d also suggest a side salad with a tangy dressing to cut through the richness: try one part dijon mustard and white wine vinegar to three parts vegetable oil, with diced shallot and a pinch of sugar. A lovely creamy veggie main.
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Time and servings

1 hr 30 minsTotal time
6Servings
10 minsPrep time
1 hr 20 minsCooking time

Ingredients

  • 1 tbsp of sunflower oil
  • 3.5 echalion shallots, finely sliced
  • 60 g of plain flour
  • 1 kg of broccoli (approx. 3 heads), florets separated and stalk finely chopped
  • 200 g of pearl barley
  • 60 g of unsalted butter
  • 2 large garlic gloves, crushed
  • 1 litre of semi-skimmed milk
  • 1 heaped tbsp of dijon mustard
  • 225 g of extra-mature cheddar, grated
  • 30 g of dried breadcrumbs
  • 1 bag of mixed salad leaves, to serve

Method

  • Step 1

    Preheat the oven to 200°C/180°C fan/gas 6. Put the broccoli on baking trays, drizzle with oil and season with salt. Roast for 30 mins. Meanwhile, bring a pan of water to the boil, add the pearl barley and cook for 20 mins; drain and set aside.

  • Step 2

    Melt the butter in a large pan and add the shallots. Cook for 8-10 mins, stirring often, until softened. Reduce the heat, stir in the garlic and cook for 2-3 mins. Stir in the flour and cook until the flour smells biscuity.

  • Step 3

    Increase the heat and add a little milk, stirring; the mixture will stiffen. Gradually add the rest of the milk, stirring, to create a thick white sauce. Remove from the heat; stir in the mustard, 200g of the cheese and salt to taste.

  • Step 4

    Add the broccoli and pearl barley into the sauce, stirring all the while, then tip into a shallow baking dish and smooth the top. Scatter with the breadcrumbs and remaining cheese. Bake for 30 mins, until deeply golden.

  • Step 5

    Remove the gratin from the oven and let it stand for 5 mins before serving with salad.