Barley Risotto with Shrimp and Peas

A smattering of sweet peas and a good measure of rock shrimp turn a humble bowl of pearl barley into a serious risotto.

Martha Stewart Living, May 2007

• YieldServes 6

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Ingredients

• 1 cup pearl barley
• 6 cups homemade or low-sodium store-bought chicken stock
• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 cup finely chopped onion
• 1/2 cup dry white wine
• 12 ounces rock shrimp, peeled Maine shrimp, or other small peeled shrimp
• 2 1/2 cups frozen peas, thawed
• 1 tablespoon finely grated lemon zest
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1/4 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon coarse salt
• Freshly ground pepper

Directions

1. Place barley in a bowl, and add enough cold water to cover by 2 inches. Cover; let soak in the refrigerator overnight.
2. Bring stock to a boil in a saucepan. Remove from heat, and cover. Drain barley. Heat oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add onion; cook 6 minutes. Stir in barley. Add wine, and cook, stirring, until liquid has evaporated.
3. Add 1/2 cup stock, and cook, stirring, until liquid is absorbed. Continue adding stock, 1/2 cup at a time, waiting until liquid is absorbed before adding more, until barley is tender but still slightly firm, about 35 minutes total (reserve 1/4 cup stock to stir in at the end).
4. About 1 minute before barley is done, stir in shrimp and peas, and cook until shrimp are opaque throughout. Remove from heat, and stir in 1/4 cup stock, lemon zest, lemon juice, Parmesan, and salt. Season with pepper, and serve.

Source:  http://www.wholeliving.com/133116/barley-risotto-shrimp-and-peas

*  I am going to substitute pasta for the barley, but that's all!  I've made this before and it'd simple and delish.  Fresh lemon zest and juice make just about anything better.