First make the stew. Cut the rind off the bacon ... Return the bacon and lamb to the casserole, together with the pearl barley. Season well, pour in the stock, add the thyme and bring to a simmer.

Add the pearl barley to the saucepan and allow to bubble ... and the parsley through the minced lamb as well as some seasoning. Heat some more oil in a shallow frying pan and fry the meatballs ...

This rich and hearty rabbit stew makes for perfect winter eating ... Bring to the boil, then stir in the pearl barley, cover and simmer for one hour and 15 minutes, or until the pearl barley ...