Short Ribs with Black Barley and Mushrooms

Step 1

In a large bowl combine barley and enough boiling water to cover completely. Let stand at least 3 hours or up to 24 hours; drain.

Step 2

Trim any surface fat from ribs; season with salt and ground black pepper. In a 4-quart Dutch oven brown ribs on all sides, half at a time, in hot oil, over medium-high heat. Remove ribs; set aside. Discard all but 1 Tbsp. drippings in Dutch oven; reduce heat to medium. Add onion and mushrooms. Cook and stir about 5 minutes or until onion is tender.

Step 3

Return ribs to pan. Add barley, broth, star anise, salt, and cracked black pepper. Bring to boiling; reduce heat. Simmer, covered, for 2 hours or until ribs and barley are tender. Remove ribs; set aside. Simmer barley mixture, uncovered, until desired consistency. Remove and discard star anise.

Step 4

In a small bowl combine parsley, garlic, and lemon peel. To serve, spoon barley mixture over beef ribs. Sprinkle with parsley mixture and freshly ground black pepper. Makes 4 servings.