Latvian Barley Risotto

A cozy Latvian twist on Italian risotto, made with pearl barley, smoked meat, and sour cream. Comfort food at its best!

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 30

Total Time 39

Course Dinner, Main Course, Side Dish

Cuisine Latvian

Servings 4

Calories 320 kcal

Ingredients

1 cup pearl barley
150 g smoked pork or ham, diced
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 tbsp butter
3 cups vegetable or meat broth
1 bay leaf
Salt and black pepper to taste
3 tbsp sour cream
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Prepare the barley – Rinse it under cold water. In a pot, combine with broth and bay leaf. Simmer on low for 25–30 minutes, until tender.
Sauté onions and meat – In a separate pan, melt the butter and sauté the onions until golden and soft. Add smoked meat and cook for another 5–7 minutes.
Combine and season – Add cooked barley (with some liquid) to the pan. Stir everything together and season with salt and pepper.
Finish with sour cream – Turn off the heat and gently stir in the sour cream until creamy.
Serve warm – Garnish with chopped parsley if desired and enjoy!

Notes

Cooking steps for Latvian barley risotto – from sautéing onions to the creamy finished dish

Latvian Barley Risotto – A Hearty Twist on a Classic 🍛🌾

When you think of risotto, Italy probably comes to mind first. But in Latvia, this cozy dish gets a local makeover with a humble yet beloved grain: pearl barley. Known for its nutty flavor and chewy texture, barley transforms this risotto into a rustic, comforting meal that’s both hearty and wholesome.

We discovered this gem at Folkklubs Ala Pagrabs in the heart of Riga—and it quickly became one of our favorite Latvian dishes. Perfect for chilly days or when you simply want something warming and deeply satisfying.

What Makes Latvian Barley Risotto Unique?

✔ Pearl barley instead of rice – Adds a chewy, nutty bite and is packed with fiber.

🥓 Smoked meat – Often pork or ham, it adds rich, smoky depth.

🧅 Caramelized onions – Bring a natural sweetness that balances the savory notes.

🥄 Sour cream finish – A classic Latvian touch for that smooth, creamy texture.

This isn't just risotto—it’s risotto with soul, infused with regional flair and ingredients you’ll find in many Latvian kitchens.

Why You’ll Love Latvian Barley Risotto

✔ A wholesome and unique variation of a beloved classic

✔ Comforting, filling, and packed with deep savory flavors

✔ A great example of how traditional ingredients shine in modern dishes

✔ Ideal for cozy nights, but equally delightful any time of year!

Latvian recipes

Keyword barley risotto, comfort food Latvia, Latvian risotto, smoked meat risotto