Brown Rice and Barley Medley with Cranberries
This hearty grain medley combines nutty brown rice and chewy barley with aromatic sautéed onions, garlic, and tangy cranberries. The seasoning spice adds depth while lemon juice brightens the earthy flavors. Perfect as a wholesome side dish for family dinners or holiday meals, this versatile medley offers satisfying texture and balanced nutrition. The combination of two grains creates an interesting contrast in bite and flavor that pairs well with roasted meats or can stand alone as a vegetarian main dish.
Ingredients
- 1 cup brown rice
- ½ cup barleywild rice1:1gluten-freegluten-free
similar texture and cooking time
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- ½ cup onion, finely chopped
- 1 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 ½ tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon seasoning spiceItalian herbs1:1flavor-change
different herb profile
- ½ cup sweetened dried cranberries
Instructions
- 1
Bring three and a half cups of water to a boil in a four-quart pot
- 2
Add brown rice and barley and cook for 40-50 minutes until soft
- 3
Drain if necessary
- 4
Sauté onion and garlic in olive oil in a separate pot
- 5
Add sautéed mixture to cooked grains
- 6
Add lemon juice, seasoning spice, and cranberries and mix well
- 7
If mixture appears too dry, add one more tablespoon of oil and mix well
Tips
Rinse grains before cooking to remove excess starch and improve texture
Toast the grains in a dry pan for 2-3 minutes before boiling to enhance nutty flavor
Let the medley rest for 5 minutes after mixing to allow flavors to meld
Good to Know
Store covered in refrigerator for up to 4 days
Can be made 1 day ahead and reheated gently with a splash of water
Serve warm as a side dish or at room temperature as a grain salad
Common Mistakes
Don't skip draining excess water to avoid mushy texture
Add oil gradually to prevent greasy medley
Taste before adding full amount of seasoning as brands vary in intensity
Substitutions
Gluten-Free Swaps
General Alternatives
different herb profile
FAQ
Can I use quick-cooking barley instead of regular barley?
Yes, but reduce cooking time to 20-25 minutes and add it after the rice has cooked for 15-20 minutes to prevent overcooking.
What if I don't have seasoning spice like Mrs. Dash?
Use a mixture of dried herbs like oregano, basil, and garlic powder, or substitute with salt and pepper to taste.
How long will this medley keep in the refrigerator?
The medley will stay fresh for up to 4 days when stored covered in the refrigerator and can be eaten cold or reheated.