World Flavors Cookbook

Bukstiņputra (Barley and Potato Porridge)

Name: Bukstiņputra (Barley and Potato Porridge)
Cook time: 45 min
Cuisine: Latvia
Ingredients: 1/2 cup pearl barley 4-5 large potatoes, peeled and cubed 1L water or milk Salt to taste For topping: 150g smoked bacon, 1 onion

A hearty, traditional farmhouse porridge made from pearl barley and potatoes, usually topped with fried bacon and onions.

Cuisine: Latvia

Ingredients

1/2 cup pearl barley 4-5 large potatoes, peeled and cubed 1L water or milk Salt to taste For topping: 150g smoked bacon, 1 onion

Instructions

1. Boil the pearl barley in water until halfway cooked. 2. Add the cubed potatoes and continue simmering until both barley and potatoes are soft. 3. Mash the potatoes slightly within the porridge to create a thick consistency. 4. Stir in milk if a creamier texture is desired and simmer for another 5 minutes. 5. Fry the diced bacon and chopped onion until crispy. 6. Serve the porridge in bowls with a generous spoonful of the bacon and onion mixture on top.