Ingredients
3 medium fresh golden beets and beet greens3 tablespoons melted coconut oil, divided 3/4 teaspoon sea salt, divided 5 cups reduced-sodium chicken broth1 cup chopped leeks (white portion only)1 teaspoon curry powder1 teaspoon garlic salt1 cup medium pearl barley1/2 cup white wine or unsweetened apple juice1 cup grated Manchego cheese3 tablespoons lemon juice (Meyer lemons preferred)4 teaspoons grated lemon zest, divided 1/4 teaspoon coarsely ground pepper1/4 cup chopped fresh parsleyLemon slices
Preparation
Preheat oven to 350°. Wash and trim beet greens, removing stems; dry with paper towels. Place greens in a single layer on parchment-lined baking sheets. Brush with 1 tablespoon coconut oil; sprinkle with 1/4 teaspoon sea salt. Bake until dry and crisp, 15-18 minutes. Set aside.
Meanwhile, peel and dice beets. In a large saucepan, bring chicken broth to a boil. Add beets. Reduce heat; simmer, covered, until beets are tender, 15-18 minutes. Remove beets with a slotted spoon. Keep broth hot.
In another large saucepan, heat remaining coconut oil over medium heat. Add leeks; cook and stir 2-3 minutes. Add curry powder, garlic salt and remaining sea salt; cook, stirring, until leeks are tender, 2-3 minutes. Increase heat to medium-high. Add barley; stir constantly until lightly toasted, 2-3 minutes. Add wine; stir until liquid has evaporated.
Add enough broth, about 1 cup, to cover barley. Reduce heat to medium; cook and stir until broth is absorbed. Add remaining broth, 1/2 cup at a time, cooking and stirring until broth is absorbed after each addition. Stir in beets with last addition of broth. Cook until barley is tender but firm to the bite and risotto is creamy, 25-30 minutes.
Remove from heat. Stir in cheese, lemon juice, 2-1/2 teaspoons grated lemon zest and pepper. Transfer to a serving dish. Sprinkle with parsley and remaining lemon zest. Serve with crispy beet greens and lemon slices.
