Barley

This luxurious soup soothes on a wintry day, warming the palate with rich duck confit, sweet root vegetables, and earthy barley. Pearl barley, by definition, has had some of its bran removed, but we found that different brands varied widely. Higher-fiber varieties will have a slightly longer cooking time.

An old-fashioned drink that was traditionally given to children.

Portobello and button mushrooms, along with herbs and garlic, enhance a creamy dish-which has no cream.

Barley replaces rice in this twist on the classic Italian risotto.

This recipe can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Not so many years ago dried "exotic" or wild mushrooms could be found only in fancy specialty shops, but no longer. Many good urban and suburban supermarkets now carry little packages of various varieties. And Asian markets are a great source for dried shiitake, also known as Chinese black mushrooms. The dried mushrooms are an optional addition to this soup, but they do add a deeper, woodsier flavor.

The Finns rely on cereal as one of the mainstays of their diet, since barley, rye and buckwheat grow well in their country. The barley pudding is a good substitute for potatoes, noodles or rice.

If you have cooked lamb, beef, or turkey on hand, use it instead of the chicken.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less. Makes use of the microwave oven.