Creamy Spring Barley

Directions

1. In a heavy saucepan, heat 1 tablespoon each butter and olive oil on medium low heat. When the butter is nearly melted, add asparagus and peas; stir to coat. Add a good pinch of salt and pepper. Cook for 3 to 5 minutes, until cooked through and tender. Set aside in a bowl.
2. While vegetables cook, bring chicken stock to a boil in a stockpot, then keep it warm by simmering on low heat. In the same pan you used to cook the vegetables, heat another tablespoon each of butter and olive oil on medium low heat. Add the barley and stir to coat. Cook for two minutes, until the barley begins to toast.
3. Begin adding chicken stock one ladle at a time. Stir gently after each addition, and allow the liquid to absorb into the barley before adding more. Continue this until all the liquid has been used. The entire process will take about 30 minutes. Half way through, you will notice the barley plumping and beginning to become creamy.
4. When the barley is cooked, add the remaining tablespoon of butter, reserved vegetables, parsley and Parmesan cheese. Stir vigorously for a few seconds to combine everything, then add the lemon zest and test for seasonings. I used about one quarter of a lemon. Serve hot, garnished with chives and extra Parmesan.