When I first met Doug 10 years ago, my recipe file had very few kid-friendly, yet adult pleasing recipes! I could turn out a fabulous raspberry soufflé and was just then studying how to bake authentic French bread, complete with throwing water in my oven lined with clay tiles (I'm sure glad I sold that condo as I doubt that was very good for the oven!) "So exactly what was I to prepare for a 5 and 11 year old when I was cooking??" I logically turned to my sister, Kathleen, who provided me with a number of dishes that kids love, but are also appealing to adults. In fact, many of those dishes provide great "comfort" food. This recipe turned out to be a hit with everyone, and I was especially pleased when Brad listed it in first grade as his favorite dish! This is the first of several "kid friendly/adult pleasing" recipes!
Barley Burger Stew
Serves 4
1-1/2 lb. ground chuck
1 medium yellow onion, diced into small pieces
3/4 cup barley
3 ribs of celery, sliced
46 oz can of tomato juice
2 tsp. chili powder
Several good shakes of red pepper flakes
2 Tbs Olive Oil
Salt & fresh ground pepper
Begin by heating a couple of tablespoons of olive oil in a Dutch oven. Add the onion and sauté until translucent. Add ground chuck, and cook just until browned. Add the tomato juice, sliced celery, barley and spices and bring to a boil. Reduce to simmer, and continue to simmer for about 30 to 40 minutes, or until nice and thick. I often cook this most of the way the night before we plan to eat it, and then finish it off for 15 minutes before serving. This is a great meal for after the basketball game, or other activity, as it can be microwaved or easily re-warmed on the cooktop.
Wine Guy Note: Serve this with a cold Stewart's Root Beer!
10/16/2002
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