The comfort food classic gets a modern makeover by swapping out white rice for the nutty ancient grain, farro. Keep it rooted in tradition by pairing it with a mug of warm, mulled cider.
Place the Farro in a heavy bottom pan, with water; bring to a boil for 10 minutes. Most all water should be absorbed.
Remove from the stove top and cover. Allow to stand for 10 minutes.
Place the Farro in a food processor, pulse until coarsely chop the Farro.
Preheat oven to 300°F. Combine the Farro, milk, half and half sugar, salt, cinnamon, allspice and lemon peel, and vanilla in a large bowl. Mix well.
Butter the inside of an oven-safe baking dish. Pour the mixture into the dish and place in the oven. Bake for 1 hour or until thick and creamy. Stir every 15 minutes.
For the Cider:
Place spices in center of a piece of cheesecloth. Tie tightly with long piece of string.
Place spice sachet in small saucepan. Add apple cider. Simmer over medium heat 10 to 15 minutes or until fragrant. Stir in vanilla. Discard spice sachet. Serve warm.
