Green Barley Porridge

Barley porridge is a comforting way to turn a simple whole grain into a warm and satisfying meal.
It offers steady energy while remaining light but filling.
Tender barley creates a creamy, hearty base while fresh greens give the porridge its vibrant color.
Chopped scallions add freshness, sesame seeds provide a gentle crunch, and nori brings a savory finish.
Perfect for breakfast, lunch, or a simple dinner when you want something warm and nourishing.
Ideal for maintaining a steady plant-forward lifestyle.

Start with the Vegetable Cooking Guide:
https://www.letsveg.com/vegetable-cooking-guide

Olivia

Green Barley Porridge

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Make this savory green barley porridge in under 1 hour with spinach, scallions, sesame seeds, and nori. A simple, nourishing meal perfect for breakfast, lunch, or a light dinner.

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 40 minutes mins

Total Time 50 minutes mins

Servings: 4

Course: Breakfast, Snack

Cuisine: Japanese

Calories: 262

Ingredients Equipment Cooking Instructions Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

  

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• 1 cup pearl barley rinsed
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger grated
• 1 clove garlic minced
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Salt to taste
• For Topping
• 3 scallions finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
• 2 sheets nori seaweed thinly sliced or crumbled
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil optional

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Equipment

5 Quart Pot

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small soup pot

Ninja Blender

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blender Ninja

Cooking Instructions

 

1. Rinse the pearl barley thoroughly under cold water.
2. Add the barley and vegetable broth to a medium saucepan and bring to a boil.
3. Reduce the heat, cover partially, and simmer for 30-35 minutes until the barley is very tender.
4. Add additional broth or water as needed to create a creamy porridge consistency.
5. Meanwhile, blend the spinach with a small amount of broth until smooth.
6. Stir the spinach mixture into the cooked barley.
7. Add the garlic, ginger, soy sauce, sesame oil, and black pepper.
8. Simmer for another 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently. Taste and adjust the seasoning.
9. Divide the warm porridge among serving bowls.
10. Top generously with chopped scallions, sesame seeds, and nori. Finish with a small drizzle of sesame oil if desired.

Nutrition

Calories: 262kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 7gFat: 7gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gSodium: 1210mgPotassium: 288mgFiber: 9gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 2074IUVitamin C: 7mgCalcium: 79mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Pearl barley creates a softer and creamier porridge than hulled barley.
Add more vegetable broth for a thinner, soup-like consistency.
Spinach provides the green color, but kale or other tender leafy greens can also be used.
Add edamame, mushrooms, or a soft-boiled egg for a heartier meal.

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