Buttery Barley With Walnuts

Directions

1. 1
   Toast the barley in a dry heavy saucepan over medium heat for about 5 minutes, until lightly colored and fragrant.
2. 2
   Add in 3 cups water; decrease to heat to a bare simmer; cover and cook 20 minutes.
3. 3
   While the barley cooks, melt the butter in a small skillet over medium heat; stir in the walnuts; stir/saute for a couple of minutes, until fragrant.
4. 4
   Mix the walnuts, raisins, and salt into the barley, gently stirring up from the bottom once.
5. 5
   Cover again and cook for about 5 minutes longer.
6. 6
   The barley is ready when the individual pearls are tender and plump and the cereal is thick but still spoonable.
7. 7
   For best texture, cover with a clean towel, replace the lid and let stand for 5-10 minutes.
8. 8
   Ladle into bowls and serve hot, with brown sugar sprinkled on top.