1. In a large pot of boiling water, cook the pasta until al dente, about 11 minutes. Drain, rinse under cold water and set aside.

2. In a large, heavy saucepan, heat the oil over moderately low heat. Add the pine nuts and cook, stirring, until just golden, about 10 minutes. Reduce the heat to low. Add the carrots and onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions are translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the barley and stir until the barley is hot, about 2 minutes.

3. Add the stock, currants, cinnamon stick, salt and pepper, and 2 cups of water. Increase the heat to high and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to moderately low, cover and simmer until the liquid has been absorbed and the barley is tender, but not mushy, about 55 minutes.

4. Stir in the cooked pasta and 1 tablespoon of the mint. Cover and simmer until the past is heated through, about 5 minutes. Spoon the barley into a serving dish and garnish with the remaining 1 tablespoon of mint. Serves 12: 270 calories, 5.7 fat gram