Pearl Barley, Breadcrumb, and Cottage Cheese Patties with Eggs

Start by soaking the pearl barley in plenty of cold water for about 6 hours, or simply soak overnight.

Once the barley softens and swells, drain it in a sieve and rinse under running water.

Put the barley into a pot, add salt, and enough water to cover it generously. Cook on low heat for about an hour. The exact time depends on how long it was soaked and the heat level. Test the barley; it should be very soft.

Drain the cooked barley and let it cool down.

When it’s cool enough to handle, add the cottage cheese, crack in the eggs, sprinkle in the breadcrumbs, and season with salt and pepper.

Mix well. The mixture should be thick and hold together well but not be too sticky to shape.

Heat oil in a frying pan.

With wet hands, form small patties, wetting your hands between each one to prevent sticking.

Fry the patties on medium heat until golden brown on both sides.

Serve with sour cream or a butter-onion-sour cream sauce—whichever you prefer. Enjoy your meal!