Friendsgiving Mushroom Herb Farro has become my absolute go-to for the holiday season, and I’m so excited to share it with you! Every year, as the air gets crisp and the leaves turn, I find myself craving comforting, flavorful dishes that bring people together. This mushroom and herb farro for Friendsgiving is exactly that – a warm hug in a bowl. I remember the first time I made it, the aroma of sautéed mushrooms and fresh herbs filled my kitchen, promising something truly special. If you’ve ever wondered how to make mushroom herb farro for Friendsgiving that’s both elegant and incredibly easy, you’re in the right place. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Friendsgiving Mushroom Herb Farro
This dish is a total winner for your Friendsgiving table, and here’s why:
- It boasts a wonderfully complex and savory flavor profile with earthy mushrooms and bright, fresh herbs.
- The prep time is incredibly short, making it an easy Friendsgiving mushroom farro to whip up even when you’re busy.
- It’s a surprisingly nutritious choice, offering whole grains and plenty of fiber, making it a healthy Friendsgiving farro option.
- It’s budget-friendly, using simple, accessible ingredients that don’t break the bank.
- The nutty texture of the farro combined with the tender mushrooms is incredibly satisfying.
- It’s a versatile side that complements a wide range of main dishes.
- The vibrant green herbs make it a beautiful addition to any holiday spread.
Ingredients for Friendsgiving Mushroom Herb Farro
Gathering these simple ingredients is the first step to creating a memorable Friendsgiving farro recipe. This dish relies on the quality of each component to shine:
- 1 cup pearled farro, rinsed – Pearled farro cooks faster and has a delightful chewiness that’s perfect for this recipe.
- 2 cups low-sodium vegetable broth – This forms the flavorful base for cooking the farro, adding depth without excess salt.
- 1 cup chopped cremini mushrooms – These common mushrooms offer a mild, earthy flavor.
- 1 cup chopped shiitake mushrooms – Shiitakes bring a richer, more intense umami flavor that complements the creminis beautifully.
- 1 small sweet onion, finely chopped – Sweet onions provide a subtle sweetness and aromatic foundation when sautéed.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced – Garlic is essential for that savory kick that makes the dish irresistible.
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil – A good quality olive oil is key for sautéing and adds a hint of fruity richness.
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped – Fresh parsley adds a bright, clean herbaceous note that cuts through the richness.
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped – Thyme brings a woodsy, slightly floral aroma and flavor that is classic for holiday dishes.
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped – Rosemary offers a pine-like, pungent scent and taste that pairs wonderfully with mushrooms.
- Juice of half a lemon – A squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end brightens all the flavors and adds a lovely tang.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Always season to perfection!
How to Make Friendsgiving Mushroom Herb Farro
Creating this delightful dish is a straightforward process, perfect for any home cook looking for an easy Friendsgiving mushroom farro. The aroma alone will have your guests excited!
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats, finely chop your sweet onion and mince the garlic.
- Step 2: In a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat, warm the 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes. You’ll smell that sweet onion aroma starting to bloom.
- Step 3: Stir in the 1 cup chopped cremini mushrooms and 1 cup chopped shiitake mushrooms. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms have softened and started to brown, releasing their earthy scent, about 7 minutes.
- Step 4: Add the 1 cup pearled farro, rinsed, to the skillet. Stir it around for a minute to lightly toast it. Pour in the 2 cups low-sodium vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. This is where the magic begins for this simple mushroom farro Friendsgiving recipe.
- Step 5: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet tightly, and let it simmer for 25 minutes. Resist the urge to peek too often! The farro will absorb all that delicious broth.
- Step 6: After 25 minutes, remove the skillet from the heat. Let it sit, covered, for another 5 minutes. This allows the farro to finish steaming and become perfectly tender.
- Step 7: Uncover the skillet and gently stir in the 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped, 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped, and 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped. Add the juice of half a lemon. Toss everything together until the herbs are well distributed and the bright lemon scent fills the air.
- Step 8: Taste and season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve this wonderful Friendsgiving mushroom herb farro warm in bowls, garnishing with a few extra fresh herbs if you like.

Pro Tips for the Best Friendsgiving Mushroom Herb Farro
Want to elevate your mushroom and herb farro for Friendsgiving? These tips will ensure your dish is a standout success:
- Toast the farro: Before adding broth, lightly toast the rinsed farro in the skillet for a minute or two. This enhances its nutty flavor and gives it a better texture.
- Don’t skip the fresh herbs: While dried herbs can work in a pinch, fresh parsley, thyme, and rosemary are crucial for that vibrant, authentic flavor.
- Variety of mushrooms: Using a mix of mushrooms, like cremini and shiitake, adds layers of earthy complexity that dried mushrooms alone can’t achieve.
- Resting is key: After cooking, let the farro rest, covered, off the heat for 5-10 minutes. This allows the grains to fully absorb any remaining moisture and the flavors to meld beautifully.
What’s the secret to perfect Friendsgiving Mushroom Herb Farro?
The secret to a truly savory mushroom herb farro Friendsgiving dish lies in toasting the farro before cooking and using a generous amount of fresh herbs at the end. This combination maximizes flavor and texture. For more cooking tips, check out our general cooking advice.
Can I make Friendsgiving Mushroom Herb Farro ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mushroom and herb farro up to two days in advance. Let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Gently reheat it on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water. For more information on food safety and storage, consult our privacy policy.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Friendsgiving Mushroom Herb Farro?
Avoid overcooking the farro, which can make it mushy; stick to the recommended simmering time and check for tenderness. Also, don’t skimp on seasoning at the end – salt and pepper are crucial for bringing out all the flavors. Understanding ingredient quality is also key; learn more about our sourcing on our contact page.
Best Ways to Serve Friendsgiving Mushroom Herb Farro
This versatile mushroom and herb farro is a star on any Friendsgiving table. It pairs beautifully with a variety of main courses, making it a truly adaptable Friendsgiving side dish farro.
- Serve it warm as a hearty accompaniment to your roasted turkey or vegan centerpiece. It offers a wonderful textural contrast and a flavorful, savory element.
- Consider it the best Friendsgiving vegetarian side alongside dishes like stuffed squash or a lentil loaf. Its earthy and herbaceous notes complement plant-based mains perfectly.
- For a lighter option, enjoy it as a warm salad. Toss in some roasted Brussels sprouts or sweet potato cubes for added color and flavor.

Nutrition Facts for Friendsgiving Mushroom Herb Farro
This savory mushroom and herb farro is a wholesome addition to your holiday meal. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional information per serving:
- Calories: 220
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 6g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 250mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used in your Friendsgiving mushroom herb farro preparation. For detailed information on data usage, please see our terms of use.
How to Store and Reheat Friendsgiving Mushroom Herb Farro
This delicious Friendsgiving farro recipe is fantastic for making ahead, which is a lifesaver during the busy holiday season. Once your savory mushroom herb farro has finished cooking, let it cool down to room temperature. This is important to prevent condensation and spoilage. Then, transfer the cooled farro into an airtight container. Properly stored, this Friendsgiving side dish farro will keep well in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. For more details on data handling, refer to our GDPR policy.
If you need to store it for longer, freezing is a great option. Divide the cooled farro into freezer-safe bags or containers, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator. For a warm serving, transfer the farro to a skillet with a splash of vegetable broth or water and heat gently over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave it in a covered dish for a minute or two, stirring halfway.
Frequently Asked Questions About Friendsgiving Mushroom Herb Farro
What is Friendsgiving Mushroom Herb Farro?
Friendsgiving mushroom herb farro is a delicious and hearty grain-based side dish specifically designed for Friendsgiving celebrations. It features nutty pearled farro cooked with savory mushrooms and a medley of fresh, aromatic herbs, creating a comforting and flavorful dish perfect for sharing with friends.
Why make Mushroom Herb Farro for Friendsgiving?
You should make this Friendsgiving mushroom herb farro because it’s incredibly flavorful, relatively easy to prepare, and offers a healthier alternative to traditional stuffing. Its earthy, herbaceous notes complement a variety of holiday mains, and it’s a fantastic way to add texture and substance to your Friendsgiving menu. Explore more recipes on our site.
Can I substitute the mushrooms in this Friendsgiving farro recipe?
Yes, you can absolutely substitute the mushrooms! While cremini and shiitake offer a great depth of flavor, feel free to use oyster, portobello, or even a mix of wild mushrooms. The key is to get a good sear on them to release their moisture and concentrate their earthy taste for your mushroom and herb farro for Friendsgiving.
Is this Friendsgiving mushroom farro recipe suitable for dietary needs?
This recipe is naturally vegetarian and can easily be made vegan by ensuring your vegetable broth is vegan-friendly. For a gluten-free option, you would need to substitute the farro with a gluten-free grain like quinoa or brown rice, adjusting cooking times accordingly. It’s a wonderfully adaptable Friendsgiving grain dish mushroom base. Visit our homepage for more dietary options.
Variations of Friendsgiving Mushroom Herb Farro You Can Try
This versatile mushroom and herb farro recipe is wonderfully adaptable! You can easily customize it to suit various dietary needs or flavor preferences for your Friendsgiving celebration.
- Vegan Friendsgiving Mushroom Farro: To make this dish completely vegan, simply ensure your vegetable broth is certified vegan. The rest of the recipe, with its plant-based ingredients, already aligns perfectly.
- Gluten-Free Friendsgiving Farro Mushroom: For those avoiding gluten, swap the pearled farro for a gluten-free grain like quinoa, brown rice, or millet. Adjust the cooking liquid and time according to the package directions for your chosen grain.
- Add Toasted Nuts: For an extra layer of texture and flavor, stir in about 1/2 cup of toasted pecans or walnuts just before serving. They add a delightful crunch that complements the soft farro and mushrooms.
- Spicy Kick: If you enjoy a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the garlic and onions during the sautéing step. This adds a subtle warmth that can be quite delightful.
Friendsgiving Mushroom Herb Farro: Amazing!
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A savory and comforting mushroom and herb farro dish, perfect as a side for Friendsgiving. This recipe combines nutty farro with earthy mushrooms and fragrant fresh herbs for a flavorful and visually appealing addition to your holiday table.
Ingredients
- 1 cup pearled farro, rinsed
- 2 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
- 1 cup chopped cremini mushrooms
- 1 cup chopped shiitake mushrooms
- 1 small sweet onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- Juice of half a lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Sauté onion and garlic until translucent (about 5 minutes).
- Stir in chopped mushrooms and cook until softened and slightly browned (about 7 minutes).
- Add rinsed farro and vegetable broth; bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 25 minutes until farro is tender.
- Remove from heat; mix in fresh herbs and lemon juice.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Serve warm in bowls, garnishing with additional herbs if desired.
Notes
- Pearled farro is recommended for a quicker cooking time.
- A mix of cremini and shiitake mushrooms provides depth of flavor.
- Fresh herbs are essential for the best taste.
- Lemon juice brightens the dish.
- Can be served warm or cold.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days and reheated on the stovetop or in the microwave.
- Toasting the farro before cooking enhances its nutty flavor.
- Allowing the dish to rest after cooking lets the flavors meld.
- Optional additions include toasted nuts for crunch.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
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