Roasted buckwheat groats--called "kasha"--lend this pilaf a nutty flavor. Kasha is available in the kosher section of most grocery stores. Serve this side, which provides about 10 percent of daily fiber needs in one serving, with roasted duck.
I was afraid to use pearl barley b/c the cooking time is usually listed at 45 minutes. Perhaps the recipe should read "quick cook barley"? So I went half and half with bulgar and buckwheat, substituted leeks for onions, and we enjoyed this very much. 7 servings? Only if you're having a lot of other food. I served with the CL vichyssoise, tarragon beet salad, and deviled eggs for a nice hot weather meal (the pilaf was the only hot item).
