Pearl Barley

Hordeum vulgare Grain, Cereal

Pearl Barley Grain, Cereal

At a Glance

  • Category Grain, Cereal

The Forktionary Angle

"The ancient grain re-imagined: pearl barley's role in modern comfort food and nutrition."

Definition

Hulled barley that has been polished to remove the bran layer, resulting in quicker cooking and a tender, chewy texture, popular in soups and stews.

Cooking Time Takes 30-45 minutes to cook, quicker than hulled barley.
Dietary Fiber Source Excellent source of soluble fiber, particularly beta-glucans.
Hydration Ratio Absorbs approximately 3 cups of liquid per 1 cup of dry barley.

Flavor Profile

The primary flavor notes for Pearl Barley are:

Mild nutty earthy slightly sweet chewy texture

Chef’s Secret

Toasting dry pearl barley in a pan before adding liquid for cooking enhances its nutty flavor and gives it a deeper aroma, perfect for risottos or pilafs.

Best Substitutes

Farro

chewier
Ratio 1:1

Brown Rice

different texture, longer cook time
Ratio 1:1

Buying Guide

Look for plump, uniform grains; store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place.

Recipes Using Pearl Barley

Taste Mood Seasonal Grains Meat

Beef Mushroom Barley Soup

Escape to the backwoods with this hearty and flavorful Beef Mushroom Barley Soup! A rich, savory broth brimming with tender beef, earthy mushrooms, and chewy barley. Perfect for a cozy night in or a rustic gathering, this recipe is guaranteed to become a family favorite.

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Inexpensive Soups Stews Preparation Main Ingredient

Barley Soup With Potatoes And Carrots

A hearty and flavorful barley soup, inspired by a favorite recipe from the "Good and Garlicky Thick and Hearty Soup" cookbook. This comforting bowl is packed with tender barley, potatoes, carrots, and aromatic herbs. Perfect for a chilly evening, it's even more satisfying than minestrone! Get the recipe now and experience the warmth.

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3 Steps Or Less Equipment Main Ingredient Pasta Rice And Grains

Bakehouse Rice Maker Barley Risotto

A creamy, comforting vegetarian barley risotto, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. This easy recipe uses a rice cooker for effortless preparation, leaving you with more time to enjoy the delicious results. Paired beautifully with roasted vegetables like reitan roast and green beans (serving suggestions). Inspired by Dori from The Bakehouse.

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Low Cholesterol Easy Low Fat Beans

Barley And Edamame Salad Ww

This vibrant Barley and Edamame Salad is a Weight Watchers-friendly recipe (5 points per serving, source: WW Power Foods Cookbook) bursting with fresh flavors and textures. Perfect for a light lunch, healthy side dish, or a satisfying summer meal prep! This recipe is quick, easy, and packed with protein and fiber, making it a guilt-free way to enjoy a delicious and nutritious salad.

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Vegan Beans Lentils Occasion

Bean And Barley Soup Mix

Create hearty and delicious bean & barley soup effortlessly with this make-ahead mix! Simply combine with your favorite broth and meat (or vegetarian option!), then simmer to perfection. This versatile mix is perfect for busy weeknights or a comforting weekend meal. Customize it with your favorite veggies for a truly personalized soup experience.

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Preparation Beginner Cook Healthy 2 Vegetables

Barley Salad With Tomatoes And Corn

A vibrant and refreshing barley salad, perfect for a summer lunch or side dish. This recipe combines tender barley with sweet corn, juicy tomatoes, and a zesty basil-garlic dressing. Easy to make ahead, it's ideal for picnics or potlucks!

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Soups Stews Low Sodium Low In Something Low Saturated Fat

Beef And Barley Soup With Wils Mushrooms

A heartwarming family recipe passed down through generations! This rich and savory Beef and Barley Soup is elevated with the earthy flavor of wild mushrooms. Perfect for a cozy night in, this recipe is easily customizable – even picky eaters will love it! Learn how to make this comforting classic, from tender beef to perfectly cooked barley and delicious mushrooms.

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Stove Top Pasta Rice And Grains Preparation Stove Top

Barley Stroganoff Stew

Warm up on a chilly evening with this rich and satisfying Barley Stroganoff Stew! Tender barley, savory beef, and creamy sour cream combine in a comforting dish perfect for a family dinner or a cozy night in. This recipe offers both stovetop and slow cooker options for your convenience.

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60 Minutes Or Less Course Low Fat Low In Something

Lemon Barley Pilaf

Brighten your dinner table with this vibrant Lemon Barley Pilaf! Perfectly paired with chicken, veal, lamb, or any protein you crave, this 55-minute recipe from Bon Appetit inspiration delivers a burst of fresh lemon flavor and fluffy barley. A delightful side dish that's both easy to make and incredibly satisfying.

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Easy Main Ingredient Grains 60 Minutes Or Less

Barley Tabbouleh

This vibrant Barley Tabbouleh recipe, inspired by Out of Self magazine, offers a satisfying twist on the classic. Hearty barley replaces traditional bulgur for a more substantial and flavorful salad. Bursting with fresh herbs, juicy vegetables, and a zesty lemon-herb dressing, this dish is perfect for a light lunch, a vibrant side, or a unique dinner option. Prepare to be amazed by this healthy and delicious recipe!

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Vegetables Grains Course Ontario

Barley Stir Fry

A delightful and satisfying barley stir-fry recipe! This hearty dish combines tender barley with vibrant vegetables and a savory teriyaki glaze. Perfect served alongside grilled chicken breast and breadsticks for a complete and flavorful meal. Get ready for a quick and easy weeknight dinner that's packed with flavor and nutrition!

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Preparation Italian Course Vegetables

Barley Minestrone With Pesto

Warm up with this hearty and flavorful Barley Minestrone! This satisfying soup bursts with fresh vegetables, tender barley, and a vibrant basil-garlic pesto. Customize it with your favorite veggies – the possibilities are endless! Perfect for a cozy weeknight meal, served with crusty bread and a side salad. (Prep time excludes barley soaking.)

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Main Ingredient Dietary Equipment Preparation

Barley Risotto With Roasted Vegetables

Elevate your weeknight dinner with this hearty and flavorful Barley Risotto! Inspired by Cooking Light, but amped up with spices, this recipe uses seasonal vegetables for peak freshness and satisfying texture. Unlike traditional risotto, the barley adds a delightful chewiness and a boost of fiber and nutrients. Vegetarian-friendly with vegetable broth, and irresistibly creamy with cheese (vegan option not recommended). Perfect as a main course for 4 or a side dish for 8. Get ready for a wholesome and delicious meal that's bursting with flavor!

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Beef Soups Stews Meat Beef

Barley And Beef Soup

This slow-simmered Barley and Beef Soup, adapted from Cooking Light, is a flavor explosion! Made with tender beef, hearty barley, and colorful vegetables, this recipe develops incredible depth overnight. Serve with crusty bread, crackers, or spicy whole-wheat pita chips for a complete and satisfying meal. Perfect for a chilly evening or a make-ahead weeknight dinner!

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Spicy Time To Make Inexpensive Occasion

Barley Pozole Mexican Barley And Hominy

A vibrant and zesty twist on traditional Pozole! This hearty Barley Pozole recipe, courtesy of the National Barley Foods Council, combines tender barley and hominy with a fiery kick. Perfect for a chilly evening or a festive gathering, this recipe is easy to follow and delivers an explosion of Mexican flavors. Get ready for a delicious and satisfying meal!

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Grains Main Ingredient Preparation Shrimp

Barley Shrimp And Corn Salad

This vibrant Barley, Shrimp, and Corn Salad is a summer sensation! Featuring tender barley, juicy shrimp, sweet corn, and a zesty lemon vinaigrette, this recipe is perfect for a light lunch, a refreshing side dish, or a delightful appetizer. Get ready for a burst of flavor in under an hour!

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Time To Make Dietary Peppers Carrots

Barley Vegetable Salad

This vibrant Barley Vegetable Salad is a culinary journey! Inspired by Jane Brody's classic, this recipe has been perfected over 20 years. Enjoy the delightful crunch of perfectly cooked barley combined with a medley of fresh vegetables and a zesty homemade dressing. Best served chilled (overnight is ideal!), this salad is perfect for potlucks, picnics, or a light yet satisfying meal any day of the week. Prepare to be amazed by the flavors!

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Low Sodium Main Dish Time To Make Main Ingredient

Barley Mushroom Stuffed Green Bell Peppers

Savory vegetarian stuffed peppers! These vibrant green bell peppers are brimming with a hearty barley and mushroom filling, seasoned to perfection with herbs and cheese. A simple yet elegant recipe, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Get ready for a flavor explosion!

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