Bacon & Mushroom Barley

It's time for a little super grain! Are you ready for some Barley? When I was a kid my mom used to make a barley casserole - I remember it being good, but after getting the recipe (which included can of mushroom soup) I decided to try my own version.  Today I present my first attempt - Mushroom & Bacon Barley. 

The Deets

1 Cup Barley

2 1/2 Cups Vegetable Broth

7 Mushrooms finely chopped (your choice - I used baby portabellas)

1/2 Shallot

2 Strips of Bacon

The How To

Bring Vegetable Broth to Boil

Add Barley and reduce to a Simmer

Cook for 40 - 45 minutes or until chewy

In a pan cook Bacon (slightly undercooked)

Remove Bacon and let cool

Add Shallots and Mushrooms to the pan and cook until caramelized

Remove fat from Bacon and roughly chop and return to pan with Mushrooms and Shallots

Once Barley is cooked add to Pan and Mix Well

I served it as a side with Grilled Halibut and a salad

Plate, Pray & Enjoy!

BALT - Bacon Avocado Lettuce & Tomato Sandwich

Every Once in a While  you just need a little Bacon.  A few weeks ago I was talking to my sister who was making BLTs for dinner - I was momentarily baffled, and had to search my mind to remember what a BLT was. When was the last time I ate a BLT? Since I couldn't remember the last time I indulged in a BLT, I decided it was time for a little BLT action.
The Deets for a BLT (serves 2)
4 slices whole wheat bread
6 slices Bacon
1/2 Tomato
1 Avocado
Romaine Lettuce 
The How To
Toast Bread

Cook Bacon to desired texture (I like mine more on the crispy side)

Slice Tomato & Avocado

Assemble 

Add a side & Dinner's ready!

Plate, Pray & Enjoy!