Skip to main content

Stovetop Barley

This fiber-rich grain has a mild nutty 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)

Barley, Bean and Corn Salad
Bowl of barley, bean and vegetable salad garnished with parsley.

Barley, Bean and Corn Salad

Fresh and healthy make-ahead side dish or salad with beans, grains and fresh veggies.
Prepare:
15 minutes
Cook:
45 minutes
Makes:
6 Cups
Southern Okra Bean Stew
Bowl of okra, rice and bean soup with tomato-based broth.

Southern Okra Bean Stew

A combination of hearty whole grains, creamy beans and tasty veggies make a satisfying and delicious stew.
Prepare:
10 minutes
Cook:
30 minutes
Makes:
14 cups
Cream of Celery Soup
Bowls of textured celery with a smooth creamy soup base.

Cream of Celery Soup

This one-pot recipe is the perfect meal on a cold day or alongside a salad as a satisfying summer lunch.
Prepare:
10 minutes
Cook:
20 minutes
Makes:
4 cups
Honey Mustard Dressing
Bottle of dressing displayed with a salad.

Honey Mustard Dressing

This homemade yogurt-based honey mustard dressing is sweet and tangy!
Prepare:
5 minutes
Makes:
12 tablespoons
Gingerbread Pancakes
Stack of golden, fluffy pancakes.

Gingerbread Pancakes

A fun twist on a breakfast favorite that is perfect for the holiday season.
Prepare:
10 minutes
Cook:
5 minutes
Makes:
8 pancakes (4-inch)
Salsa Macha
Bowl of thin red salsa shown drizzled over chicken and vegetables.

Salsa Macha

You will love this pepper-infused oil made with hot peppers, garlic and peanuts. It is delicious drizzled on just about anything and stores well in your refrigerator or freezer.
Prepare:
20 minutes
Cook:
20 minutes
Makes:
1 ½ cups
Was this page helpful to you?
CAPTCHA
This question is for testing whether or not you are a human visitor and to prevent automated spam submissions.