Instant Pot Farro

Farro is a whole wheat grain, and therefore should be avoided for those who are gluten-free. It is sold dry as either semi-pearled farro or farro. Pearled farro has the outer layer removed, allowing it to cook faster (7-10 minutes). It is a great side dish and can be added to salads, soups, and stews. I prefer to make it in the Instant Pot. It comes out predictably delicious with a chewy texture. If you opt for the regular farro, anticipate a longer cooking time (12-15 minutes).

QUANTITY AND INGREDIENTS

1 1/2 cups pearled farro (in bulk section @ Winco, sold as Italian Farro Pearled)

2 1/4 cups filtered water

1/2 teaspoon kosher salt (not table salt)

Equipment:

6-or 8-quart Instant Pot

*If serving as a side, season with chopped garlic and fresh herbs

PREPARE YOUR MIS EN PLACE

1. Read and reread the recipe.

2. Gather all your ingredients and necessary equipment.

GET COOKING

1. Add the farro, water, and salt to the Instant Pot and stir. Lock the lid of the Instant Pot. Insure the pressure release button is in the “sealing” position.

2. Cook on high pressure for 7 minutes. Note that it takes about 5 minutes for the pot to “preheat” and come up to pressure before it starts cooking.

3. Natural release for 7 minutes. Then vent any remaining steam by moving the vent to “venting”, covering your hand with a towel or hot pad.

4. Open the lid and drain off any excess water using a fine strainer. Using a fork, fluff the grains and let cool.

5. Serve immediately, or store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. It reheats well in the microwave (30-60 seconds).