1. Bring a large saucepan of water to a boil. Add onions, and blanch until skins loosen, about one minute. Drain onions in a colander, and rinse with cold water. Peel onions, and set aside.

2. Heat the fat in a large saucepan over medium-low heat until hot but not smoking. Add barley; cook, stirring frequently, until the barley is browned and fragrant, about 15 to 20 minutes.

3. Add stock and reserved onions. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Season with salt and pepper. Cover, and cook barley until tender but chewy and all liquid has been absorbed, about 40 minutes; if all the liquid is absorbed and the barley is still not done, add a few tablespoons stock or water, and continue cooking. Serve hot.