(I don’t even speak English every day anymore, so I could be wrong).

You’re not wrong. I think some of it is the difference between casual speech and formal writing (people are more likely to say “after being” but write “after having been”, especially in published work)**, but some of it is also just poorly phrased. It makes enough sense to a native speaker to get what the problem is asking, though.

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** I think the first may be correct in some cases, but idk the rule.

Probably paint pens like Poscas.

I’ve never had roasted barley outside of barley tea, so not sure if I’ll get the flavors right, but I’m thinking hearty salad. Roast a pan of bell pepper and kabocha (or similar squash) with a clove of garlic. Cook/drain a little toasted barley (not a ton, just a pleasant amount for texture/flavor) while that’s in the oven. Greens, roasted veg, cooked barley, conveniently leftover chicken, thin-sliced green onion, sprinkle of dried cranberries. Roast garlic goes in the vinaigrette.

Not OP, but I would have thought a basic pantry included staples like rice, cheap dried beans, and pasta (probably elbows or shells, since they’re pretty versatile).

I’d also do mac & cheese, the same as theirs, but with different seasonings: a little sauteed, minced onion or a dash of onion powder; a tiny bit of mustard for creamier cheese sauce; and a dash of black pepper.

PS: This is great! I hope you do these regularly.

I’m not sick, but I’m not well

And I’m so hot, 'cause I’m in hell

(https://youtu.be/wYsMjEeEg4g )

3 hours? That’s one tough chicken.