Barley Water
Barley Water is a traditional, healthy and cooling drink made with just 2 main ingredients barley and water. This is an excellent cooling and hydrating drink consumed in many parts of the world. Let’s learn how to make barley water traditionally which includes stove top, pressure cooker and instant pot methods with step by step pictures and video.
One way to prepare Barley Water is by soaking the grain in water for a short period of time, then boiling it with sufficient water and adding a touch of lemon for flavor (this step is not necessary). This drink is known for its refreshing qualities and is considered to be nourishing.
About Barley Water
Barley Water is a nutritious and refreshing beverage created by cooking barley in water until it becomes tender. As it simmers, the water absorbs all of the grain’s nutrients and advantages, resulting in a highly beneficial and healthful drink. It is a popular and invigorating beverage enjoyed worldwide.
Barley is a nutrient-rich grain with numerous health benefits. It is often hailed as a miraculous beverage that aids in healing various ailments, improving diabetic conditions, and promoting speedy recovery from illness.
After draining the water, cooked barley can be eaten on its own or mixed with other ingredients and consumed. Barley rice is believed to have a positive impact on diabetic patients by reducing sugar and cholesterol levels.
Types of Barley
Selecting the appropriate type of barley is crucial for this dish. I suggest using either hulled or pearl barley for best results.
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Raw barley with the outer skin intact is known as unhulled barley and is ideal for growing barley sprouts. It is a nutritious option as it undergoes minimal processing. Compared to hulled barley, it requires a longer cooking time.
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Hulled Barley: This type of barley has undergone minimal processing to remove its fibrous hulls, resulting in a quicker cooking time and improved digestibility.
- Pearl barley : Pearl barley is polished or pearled where some or all of the outer bran layer is removed. If it is lightly polished then it has a dull color whereas if its heavily polished the grain looks bright white in color. Pearl barley cooks much faster as there is no bran.
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Barley grits are made by cutting barley kernels into smaller pieces.
- Barley flakes resemble oatmeal or rolled oats in appearance. They are most commonly used for making porridge and breakfast cereal.
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Barley flour is a versatile ingredient that can be used in various dishes such as baking, soups, and porridges. It is also commonly used as a thickening agent in stews and gravies. When baking, it is often combined with wheat flour for a delicious result.
Why Barley Water?
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Regulates blood sugar levels and reduces cholesterol levels.
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Enhances metabolism, aiding in weight loss.
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It is beneficial for the kidneys to eliminate toxins.
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Assists in enhancing sleep quality.
- Recovers from illness.
Video
Techniques for preparing Barley Water
I have compiled 3 techniques that I frequently utilize to prepare barley. However, all 3 methods require the grain to be soaked beforehand for faster cooking and easier digestion. The water measurement provided is only for soaked barley.
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The pressure cooker technique is a fast and simple way to prepare barley. Begin by thoroughly rinsing the barley and soaking it in water for a minimum of 2 hours. After draining the water, place the barley in a pressure cooker with an appropriate amount of water and cook on low-medium heat for 5 whistles. The recommended ratio is 1/4 cup of barley to 4.5 cups of water.
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The stove top open pot technique involves simmering barley and water together in a pot until the barley becomes tender. While this method is efficient, it requires frequent stirring and monitoring to ensure that the barley is fully cooked. The recommended ratio for this method is 1/4 cup of barley to 4 cups of water.
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One of my recent go-to methods is using the instant pot because it is simple and requires no extra monitoring. Begin by adding soaked barley and water to the inner pot of the instant pot. Close the lid and set the vent to seal. Use the manual pressure cook function and set the timer for 20 minutes. After cooking, manually release the pressure and wait before opening to check. The recommended ratio is 1/4 cup of barley to 4 cups of water.
Comparing Homemade Barley Water to Store-Bought
I once came across barley water in a grocery store and was unsure why it was being sold for profit when it can be easily made at home. After reading an article, I learned that it is popularly consumed as a refreshing cold beverage in various regions.
Barley Water is believed to possess numerous healing properties, making it an ideal beverage for a speedy recovery from illness. While it can be consumed year-round, it is particularly refreshing during hot summer months.
Preparing this beverage at home is simple. All you have to do is boil a pot of water with soaked barley grains until they are fully cooked. Then, strain the water and drink it hot, warm, or chilled, depending on your preference. For a hint of lemon taste, you can also add a small amount of lemon juice to create Lemon Barley Water.
Why purchase commercial Barley Water, which contains preservatives and additives, when you can easily make it at home? Not only can you customize it to your preference by adding honey, sugar, or salt, but you can also garnish it with ice cubes, lemon, and mint leaves for a refreshing cold beverage. Give it a try and enjoy!
There are additional beverages available here.
How to make Barley Water Step by Step
Pressure cooker method
Remove any stones or specks from the barley and discard them.
Next, measure out the barley. I used 1/4 cup of pearl barley.
Rinse the item thoroughly in running water 2-3 times, followed by a soaking period of at least 2 hours.
4. Make sure it is covered and then put it to the side.
Remove excess water from the barley and place it in a pressure cooker with 4.5 cups of water.
Cover and seal the lid. Place a weight on top. Cook under pressure for 5 whistles on low-medium heat.
Allow the pressure to naturally release. The cooked barley should have a soft texture but not be overly mushy.
Strain the mixture using a strainer.
Press the button to remove all the water.
The Barley Water is now prepared and can be consumed either hot or warm.
Open pot method
Add 4 cups of water to a saucepan and then mix in 1/4 cup of rinsed and soaked barley.
11.Let it boil.
After it reaches a boiling point, let it cook for 20-25 minutes with the pot partially covered. Remember to open and stir occasionally.
After 20 minutes, the barley grains will have softened and become slightly sticky. Personally, I enjoy the texture and often eat it as a snack. You can also try adding it to barley water while drinking.
Strain the mixture and press thoroughly to ensure all barley water is extracted.
Flavour barley water
To enhance the flavor, include some lemon juice. The amount added is subjective, so add to your preference. For every 1 cup of barley water, 1 teaspoon of lemon juice is recommended for optimal taste.
Next, incorporate a small amount of cooked barley into the mixture.
Mix thoroughly and drink. You can also include ice cubes for a cool beverage.
The barley water is prepared and available to be served.
Expert Tips
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Soaking hulled barley overnight may be necessary.
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Typically, I let pearl barley soak for 2-4 hours depending on my cooking schedule.
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Make sure to inquire or consult before selecting your type of barley. However, if you are purchasing it for this specific recipe, pearl barley or hulled barley are the most suitable options.
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You can eat barley rice that has been strained, and pair it with your choice of sambar or curry.
Variations
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Lemon juice can be added to barley water to enhance its flavor and make it a more enjoyable beverage.
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The choice to add sugar or salt is based solely on personal preference.
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To add extra flavor, you can sprinkle black salt or a dash of chat masala powder.
Storage & Serving Suggestion
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It is possible to refrigerate barley water for a maximum of 2 days, however, I suggest consuming it fresh in order to fully reap its benefits.
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Pour into a glass. Include salt, honey, sugar, or lemon juice. Stir thoroughly and consume. If desired, add a few ice cubes for a cold beverage.
FAQs
When is the optimal time to consume Barley Water?
You are welcome to enjoy Barley Water at any time during the day, but be sure to limit yourself to one or two servings per day. It is best served hot or warm, according to your preference.
Is it safe to consume Barley Water on a daily basis?
You are able to consume this beverage on a daily basis, but be sure to only have one serving. It is one of the top diet drinks when consumed in moderation. Please seek advice from a nutritionist for diet guidance.
What is the maximum storage time for Barley Water?
The optimum storage time for refrigeration is 2 days. In locations with high humidity, such as India, it is recommended to consume within 1 day if kept at room temperature.
What are the advantages for one’s health of consuming Barley Water?
There are a multitude of advantages for one’s well-being, such as:
- Lowers cholesterol
- Promotes weight loss
- Controls blood sugar
- Improves digestion
- Recover from illness
How can barley water be stored?
Store it in clean dry container in fridge. Make sure to cool completely then transfer to a dry container and store in fridge. I would recommend to have it made fresh if you are planning to have it to cure illness.
Is it possible to create barley water using barley flour?
It is possible to use barley flour, but the nutritional value of flour and whole grains are not the same. Mix 1 teaspoon of barley flour with 2 cups of water and simmer for a few minutes until it reduces to 1 cup. Strain and consume.
What is the optimal method for consuming barley water?
The ideal and most nutritious method of consumption is by infusing it with pure lemon juice and drinking it while it is fresh. Adding sweetener or salt can improve the flavor.
References
- Healthyeating
- Whole grains council
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📖 Recipe Card
Barley Water Recipe
Ingredients
Pressure cooker method
- 1/4 cup barley
- 4 and 1/2 cups water
Stove top method
- 1/4 cup barley
- 4 cups water
Instant Pot Method
- 1/4 cup barley
- 4 cups water
Instructions
Pressure cooker method:
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Remove any stones or debris from the barley and discard them.
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Measure 1/4 cup of pearl barley.
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Initially, thoroughly rinse it with running water 2-3 times. Afterwards, submerge it in water for a minimum of 2 hours.
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Cover and set it aside.
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Remove excess water from barley and place it into a pressure cooker with 4.5 cups of water.
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Cover with the lid and place a weight on top. Cook under pressure for 5 whistles on medium-low heat.
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Allow the pressure to dissipate naturally. The cooked barley will have a tender texture, but should not be overly mushy.
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Pour the text into a sieve.
Strain the text using a strainer.
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Push the button to fully remove the barley water.
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The barley water is now prepared and can be consumed either hot or warm.
Stove top method:
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Pour 4 cups of water into a saucepan and then add 1/4 cup of rinsed and soaked barley to it.
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Let it boil.
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After bringing it to a boil, let it cook for 20-25 minutes with the lid slightly ajar. Stir occasionally.
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After 20 minutes, the barley grains will have become tender and slightly sticky. I often enjoy them as a snack because I like their texture. You could also incorporate them into barley water while drinking.
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Strain the mixture and squeeze thoroughly to remove all of the barley water.
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Squeeze some lemon juice into it. There is no specific measurement for this, so add it to your liking. For every 1 cup of barley water, adding 1 teaspoon of lemon juice should be just right.
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Next, incorporate a small amount of cooked barley into the mixture.
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Stir the mixture thoroughly and drink it. You could also enhance the flavor by adding ice cubes and enjoying it as a cold beverage.
Instant Pot Method:
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Combine soaked barley with water in the inner pot of the instant pot. -
Close the lid and set the vent to the sealed position. -
Set the timer for 20 minutes and use a manual pressure cooker.
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After completing the task, allow the pressure to release manually, wait for a moment, and then open to inspect.
Video
Notes
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If you are using unprocessed barley, it may be necessary to soak it overnight.
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I typically soak pearl barley for a duration of 2-4 hours, depending on when I plan to cook it.
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Please inquire or seek advice before making a decision on which type of barley to purchase. However, if you are planning to use it for making barley water, pearl barley or hulled barley would be the most suitable choices.
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You have the option to eat strained barley rice with your preferred sambar or curry.
Nutrition
The article “Barley Water” was published on Sharmis Passions.