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)

Stovetop Creamy Grits
Bowls of fine textured corn grits.

Stovetop Creamy Grits

Classic creamy corn grits with a mild taste.
Prepare:
5 minutes
Cook:
25 minutes
Makes:
4 servings
Bok Choy Salad
Bowl of seasoned, chopped bok choy.

Bok Choy Salad

Add bright flavor and crunchy texture to any meal or snack.
Prepare:
15 minutes
Makes:
3 cups
Baked Apple Chips
Slices of dried apples sprinkled with cinnamon are displayed on a platter.

Baked Apple Chips

Simple yet tasty snack or dessert recipe combining sweet apples and warm cinnamon spice. Only 2 ingredients!
Prepare:
10 minutes
Cook:
2 hours
Makes:
2 Cups
Sweet Potato and Orange Muffins
Pulled-apart fluffy and moist sweet potato muffins.

Sweet Potato and Orange Muffins

A warm and comforting combination of whole wheat, sweet potatoes, warm spices, and tangy orange make these muffins perfect for breakfast or a snack.
Prepare:
10 minutes
Cook:
20 minutes
Makes:
12 muffins
Pasta Salad
Macaroni noodles with ham, vegetables and dressing.

Pasta Salad

Hearty pasta, fresh veggies, salty ham and creamy cheese come together for a great summer side dish.
Prepare:
10 minutes
Makes:
6 cups
Garden Herbal Tea
Mugs of water infused with herbs and orange peels.

Garden Herbal Tea

A quick and easy way to enjoy cold or warm tea using whatever herbs you like.
Prepare:
10 to 15 minutes
Makes:
1 cup
Was this page helpful to you?