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)

Chicken and Dumpling Casserole
Baking dish of dumplings with a saucy chicken and vegetable base.

Chicken and Dumpling Casserole

Simple yet comforting dumplings with chicken and vegetables are ready in less than an hour!
Prepare:
10 minutes
Cook:
30 minutes
Makes:
8 Cups
Zucchini Tomato Bake
Baking dish with layers of zucchini rounds coated with tomatoes and cheese.

Zucchini Tomato Bake

Warm and flavorful vegetable bake topped with creamy cheese.
Prepare:
10 minutes
Cook:
45 minutes
Makes:
7 cups
Buttermilk Scones
Plate of golden whole-wheat scones with raisins.

Buttermilk Scones

This kid-approved scone recipe is good for breakfast, a holiday brunch or an everyday snack.
Prepare:
20 minutes
Cook:
20 minutes
Makes:
9 Scones
Stovetop Amaranth
Big bowl of cooked amaranth.

Stovetop Amaranth

Creamy and slightly nutty. Add fruit, honey and your favorite spices for a delicious breakfast.
Prepare:
5 minutes
Cook:
30 to 35 minutes
Makes:
about 2 ½ cups
Great Gazpacho Soup
Small bowl of tomato based chunky vegetable soup.

Great Gazpacho Soup

Homemade tomato-based chilled soup with hints of lemon and garlic.
Prepare:
10 minutes
Makes:
4 cups
Applesauce French Toast
Slices of french toast cooked with applesauce, vanilla and cinnamon are displayed on a plate.

Applesauce French Toast

A low-sugar and flavorful French toast recipe that’s perfect with your favorite toppings!
Prepare:
5 minutes
Cook:
10 minutes
Makes:
6 Slices