Pearl barley, a versatile and nutritious grain, has been a staple in kitchens around the world for centuries. Packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals, it’s a fantastic addition to any diet. In this blog post, we’ll take you through the simple steps of cooking pearl barley to perfection, ensuring a delicious and wholesome meal every time.
This post may contain affiliate or sponsored content.
Similar posts you might like:
- Creamy Zuppa Toscana
- Beef and Barley Soup – Pickle Soup
- Meatballs with Creamy Mushroom Sauce Recipe
- Oven Roasted Potatoes
Tools you may need:
Ingredients:
- Pearl Barley: Pearl barley is a whole grain that has been polished, removing the outer hull and part of the bran layer. This process gives it a pearled appearance and a softer texture compared to hulled barley. It is a good source of fiber, particularly beta-glucans that may contribute to heart health. Pearl barley also contains vitamins such as B-complex vitamins, minerals like magnesium, and antioxidants.
- Water or Vegetable Broth: Provides the liquid necessary for cooking the pearl barley.
- Salt: Common table salt is added to enhance the overall flavor of the pearl barley.
- Butter: Adding butter to barley can enhance the flavor, richness, and overall mouthfeel of the dish. Unsalted butter or salted will work.
How to cook pearl barley:
- Rinse the Pearl Barley: Start by rinsing the pearl barley under cold running water in a colander to remove any excess dirt or debris. This step also helps reduce the starch on the surface, preventing the grains from becoming too sticky during cooking.
- Soak (Optional): While not necessary, soaking pearl barley from 30 minutes to a few hours or overnight can help reduce the cooking time and improve its digestibility. If you choose to soak, drain the barley before proceeding to the next step.
- Boil: In a large saucepan, bring 3 cups of water or vegetable broth to a boil with the barley and salt. Adding broth enhances the flavor of the pearl barley, but water works well too.
- Reduce Heat and Simmer: Reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan with a lid, and let it simmer for about 30-40 mins or until tender to taste.
- Add Butter: Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. Add butter to prevent sticking and add richness and flavor.
- Done: The pearl barley should be tender but still have a chewy texture. If needed, continue simmering for an additional 5-10 minutes.
- Drain Excess Liquid (Optional): If there is excess water in the pot, drain it using a fine mesh strainer. Alternatively, you can leave a small amount of liquid for added moisture.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once the pearl barley is cooked to perfection, fluff with a fork and serve.
How to serve pearl barley:
- side dish
- in salads
- soups
- or as a base for various flavorful dishes
If you tried this recipe and love it, please come back and give it a review or a comment. Tag me on IG @shakanranch
Pin this for later:
How to cook perfect pearl barely
Nutritious and delicious grain cooked to perfection every time.
Ingredients
- 1.5 cup pearl barley
- 3 cups water or vegetable broth
- Salt to taste
- Butter
Instructions
- Rinse the Pearl Barley: Start by rinsing the pearl barley under cold running water in a colander to remove any excess dirt or debris. This step also helps reduce the starch on the surface, preventing the grains from becoming too sticky during cooking.
- Soak (Optional): While not necessary, soaking pearl barley from 30 minutes to a few hours or overnight can help reduce the cooking time and improve its digestibility. If you choose to soak, drain the barley before proceeding to the next step.
- Boil: In a large saucepan, bring 3 cups of water or vegetable broth to a boil with the barley and salt. Adding broth enhances the flavor of the pearl barley, but water works well too.
- Reduce Heat and Simmer: Reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan with a lid, and let it simmer for about 30- 40 mins or until tender to taste.
- Add Butter: Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. Add butter to prevent sticking and add richness and flavor.
- Done: The pearl barley should be tender but still have a chewy texture. If needed, continue simmering for an additional 5-10 minutes.
- Drain Excess Liquid (Optional): If there is excess water in the pot, drain it using a fine mesh strainer. Alternatively, you can leave a small amount of liquid for added moisture.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once the pearl barley is cooked to perfection, fluff with a fork and serve.
