Description
Step back in time with this hearty medieval-style stew, a warming and wholesome dish that brings together the simple yet satisfying flavors of the Middle Ages. Featuring barley, root vegetables, and aromatic herbs, this recipe showcases ingredients commonly found in a medieval kitchen. Perfect for a family dinner or a themed feast, this dish will transport you to the heart of an old-world village.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Stew:
- 1 cup pearl barley, rinsed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or clarified butter
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 medium carrots, chopped
- 2 parsnips, chopped
- 1 large turnip, peeled and cubed
- 2 medium potatoes, cubed
- 6 cups vegetable broth or chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded green cabbage
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Base: Heat olive oil or clarified butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
- Add the Vegetables: Stir in the carrots, parsnips, turnip, and potatoes. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, to lightly caramelize the vegetables.
- Simmer the Stew: Add the rinsed barley, broth, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 35–40 minutes, or until the barley is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
- Incorporate the Cabbage: Add the shredded cabbage to the pot and cook for an additional 10 minutes, allowing it to soften and meld with the flavors.
- Season and Serve: Remove the bay leaf, then season the stew with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve hot with crusty bread or a rustic flatbread.
Notes
- For added protein, consider incorporating lentils or diced chicken.
- Medieval cooks often relied on herbs like thyme, rosemary, and parsley for flavor—feel free to adjust the quantities based on personal preference.
- This recipe can be made in advance and tastes even better the next day.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Medieval European
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 1.5 cups)
- Calories: 245 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 350 mg
- Fat: 5 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 43 g
- Fiber: 7 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
Keywords: Medieval stew, historical recipes, rustic cooking, barley stew, hearty soup