Recipe: Barley and Vegetable Casserole

A hearty vegetarian casserole packed with fibre, protein, and slow-release energy.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 50-60 minutes
Serves: 4-6

Ingredients:

• 1 cup pearl barley, rinsed and soaked overnight

• 1 can white beans, drained and rinsed

• 1 cup diced mushrooms

• 1 carrot, diced

• 1 zucchini, diced

• 1 cup spinach, chopped

• 3 cups vegetable broth

• 1 can diced tomatoes

• 1 tsp thyme

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• ½ tsp smoked paprika

• ½ cup grated cheddar cheese (or sub for nutritional yeast)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 180°C.

2. Mix all ingredients together in a baking dish. Cover with foil.

3. Bake for 45-50 minutes until barley is tender.

4. Remove foil, stir, and sprinkle with cheese before placing back into the oven and cooking for a further 10-15 minutes, until cheese is melted/ golden.