Barley is an ancient grain with a pleasantly chewy texture and mild, nutty flavour. While it may not be as popular as oat or quinoa, pearl barley is a versatile and nourishing option that can easily replace rice or other grains in your meals.

Rich in fiber, including beta-glucan, pearl barley can be a satisfying addition to soups, salads, and hearty side dishes. The only challenge for many people is knowing exactly how to cook it for the best texture.

Here’s a simple method to cook pearl barley perfectly every time. Try it nuh!

INGREDIENTS

• 1 cup pearled barley.
• 2 ½ – 3 cups water.
• Pinch of salt.
• Parsley Flakes (Optional).

INSTRUCTIONS

• Rinse the barley and add water.
• Add salt.
• Place on the stove on medium heat.
• Cover and let it cook for at least 20 – 25 minutes.
• Check periodically. Barley should be firm, yet cooked (Not too soft) and chewy.
• Drain off the water (if any) and let cool for a bit.
• Garnish as desired.
• Serve and Enjoy!

Notes:

You can soak the barley for at least four (4) hours or longer before cooking. This will help with the cooking process, making it less time-consuming. You can store the remainder in the refrigerator when cooled.  Hope you enjoy it!

A tip: If you follow a gluten-free lifestyle, then barley is not for you as it contains gluten. The usual measurement for cooking is 1 cup of barley to 3 cups of water.

Here are some other awesome recipes to try:

• Turmeric rice – White rice with a nutritious punch!

• Quinoa and Lentils – A Fiber and Protein Powerhouse!

  
  

Ingredient Spotlight!

~ Pearled Barley~

Pearled barley is barley that has been processed to remove the fibrous outer hull. It may also be polished, like white rice, which would have all the bran layer removed. When cooked, it is a firm, yet chewy-textured grain that is fluffy, as it swells as it cooks. There is also hulled barley. This type of barley has all its nutrients intact as it is less processed.

Pearled barley is rich in fiber and protein, among other nutrients such as iron, magnesium, manganese, selenium, calcium, and B-vitamins among others.

To good health!