Skip to main content

Stovetop Barley

This fiber-rich grain has a nutty mild flavor and a slightly chewy texture.
Cooked barley in a bowl.
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 45 to 60 minutes
Makes: 3 ½ to 4 cups
Nutrition Facts: View label

Ingredients

1 cup pearl barley, rinsed (see Notes)
3 cups water
½ teaspoon salt (optional)

Directions

  1. Wash hands with soap and water.
  2. In a saucepan, combine barley, water and salt, if desired. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover the pan and simmer until barley is tender, about 45 to 60 minutes.
  3. Drain off excess liquid and serve as desired.
  4. Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours.

Notes

  • Enjoy cooked barley as a side like rice or in a whole grain salad or grain bowl.
  • Add barley to soups or stews.
  • Enjoy barley at breakfast with toppings you would add to oatmeal, such as cinnamon, milk and blueberries.
  • Pearl barley is found in many grocery stores. It is high in fiber but is not a whole grain because the bran layer has been removed. Hulled barley is the name given to whole grain barley. Hulled barley can be cooked the same way as pearl barley but it will take an extra 20 to 30 minutes to soften.

Comments

I hadn't thought about having barley for breakfast...was stuck with the idea of oatmeal for that meal. Since experimenting with other whole grains, I realize all whole grains, barley included, can be enjoyed in the morning with fruit and nuts or with an egg and chopped onion. thanks!

You might also like...

Recipes A to Z (without photos)

Couscous Salad
Photo of Couscous Salad

Couscous Salad

A light and colorful salad combining sweet cranberries, crunchy pecans and fresh vegetables with couscous pasta.
Prepare:
15 minutes
Makes:
5 cups
Stovetop Brown Rice
Cooked rice in a bowl.

Stovetop Brown Rice

Nutrient-rich whole grain that can be used in a variety of recipes. Great make-ahead staple.
Prepare:
5 minutes
Cook:
45 to 55 minutes
Makes:
3 cups
Banana Oatmeal Bread
A loaf of Banana Oatmeal Bread is sliced to show a golden brown top and moist inside texture.

Banana Oatmeal Bread

Warm and comforting whole-wheat banana bread that is perfect any time of day. Oats add to the moist texture.
Prepare:
15 minutes
Cook:
45 to 50 minutes
Makes:
12 slices
North African Spice Mix
Image of North African Spice Mix

North African Spice Mix

A warm and fragrant blend of dried herbs and spices for rubbing on beef, lamb, chicken, fish or vegetables, and for seasoning soups, stews and marinades.
Prepare:
5 minutes
Makes:
10 Tablespoons
Bell Pepper Nachos
Bell pepper pieces are topped with beans, salsa and cheese for a variation on classic nachos.

Bell Pepper Nachos

A great recipe to get the whole family involved! This unique and healthy take on nachos can be ready in under 30 minutes.
Prepare:
5 minutes
Cook:
15 minutes
Makes:
8 cups
Chicken Mole
Chicken Mole Recipe Image

Chicken Mole

A flavorful chicken recipe with a rich and smoky sauce.
Prepare:
20 minutes
Cook:
45 minutes
Makes:
7 cups
Was this page helpful to you?