Barley Tea Recipe

Discover the ancient secrets of Mugicha (Japan) and Boricha (Korea)! This roasted barley tea is a refreshing, caffeine-free beverage perfect for hot weather. Known for its cooling properties and ability to cleanse the system, it's a delicious coffee substitute and a soothing remedy for colds and flu, helping to ease congestion and phlegm. Traditional healers have used barley tea for centuries to treat various ailments, including hemorrhoids and inflammatory arthritis. It's even believed to help reduce the toxicity from radiation and chemotherapy. This versatile tea is also a gentle first food for babies and those with sensitive stomachs. Try this simple recipe and experience the health benefits of barley tea today! *Disclaimer: This recipe is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Consult your doctor for any health concerns.*

Prep Time 5 mins
Cook Time 11 mins
Calories 101.1 kcal
Protein 7g
Rating 4.8 (4 Reviews)
Barley Tea

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Passionate home cook & Forktionary contributor.

Ingredients for Barley Tea

  • 2 ounces (57 grams) barley
  • 1.5 pints (710 ml) water
  • Honey
  • Lemon

How to Make Barley Tea

  1. **Prepare the Barley:** Rinse 2 ounces (57 grams) of barley under cold running water using a fine-mesh sieve.
  2. **Toast the Barley (Optional):** For a richer, coffee-like flavor, heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat until a drop of water sizzles on contact. Add the rinsed barley and dry roast, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon for 8-10 minutes, until golden brown (for a lighter tea) or dark brown (for a coffee-like brew). Watch carefully to prevent burning.
  3. **Boil the Water:** In a small saucepan, combine 2 ounces (57 grams) of barley (roasted or unroasted) and 1.5 pints (710 ml) of water.
  4. **Simmer the Tea:** Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 6 minutes.
  5. **Strain and Serve:** Strain the tea through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth, pressing gently to extract all the liquid.
  6. **Enjoy!** Serve warm or chilled. Experiment with the roasting level of the barley to adjust the flavor to your preference.

Chef's Tip for Extra Flavor

Small additions can make a big impact! Try a sprinkle of fresh herbs, a dash of your favorite spice blend, or a squeeze of citrus just before serving to really enhance the flavors of your dish.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

0 g

Sugar

0g

Fat

0g

Carbs

6g