Latvian Mushroom and Barley Stew
A rustic and nourishing stew featuring earthy mushrooms, hearty barley, and root vegetables, simmered in a rich broth. This dish is a staple in Latvian homes, especially during colder months, offering warmth and sustenance.
🧂 Ingredients
- 500 g Mixed mushrooms(such as porcini, chanterelles, or cremini, cleaned and sliced)
- 150 g Pearl barley(rinsed)
- 2 medium Carrots(peeled and diced)
- 2 medium Potatoes(peeled and cubed)
- 1 large Onion(chopped)
- 2 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1.5 liters Vegetable broth
- 1 Bay leaf
- 1 tbsp Dried dill
- 1 tsp Salt
- 0.5 tsp Black pepper(freshly ground)
- 2 tbsp Butter or oil
- 2 tbsp Fresh dill(chopped, for garnish)
- Sour cream(for serving (optional))
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Heat butter or oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- 2
Add the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms to the pot. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms have released their liquid and started to brown, about 8-10 minutes.
💡 Tip: Don't overcrowd the pan; cook mushrooms in batches if necessary. - 3
Stir in the rinsed pearl barley, diced carrots, and cubed potatoes.
💡 Tip: Rinsing the barley removes excess starch. - 4
Pour in the vegetable broth, add the bay leaf, dried dill, salt, and pepper. Bring the stew to a boil.
💡 Tip: Use good quality broth for the best flavor. - 5
Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes, or until the barley and vegetables are tender.
- 6
Remove the bay leaf before serving. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
💡 Tip: The stew should be thick; if it's too thin, simmer uncovered for a few more minutes. - 7
Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with fresh chopped dill. Serve hot, with a dollop of sour cream on the side if desired.
💡 Tip: This stew is also delicious with a slice of dark rye bread.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a richer flavor, you can use a mix of vegetable and mushroom broth.
- ✓If using dried porcini mushrooms, rehydrate them in warm water for 20 minutes, then chop and add them along with their strained soaking liquid to the stew.
- ✓This stew can be made ahead of time; the flavors meld beautifully overnight.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add other root vegetables like parsnips or celery root.
- For a meatier version, add diced smoked pork or bacon along with the onions.
- Stir in a tablespoon of Latvian butter at the end for extra richness.