This is soft, polished barley - mild in taste, chewy in texture, and easy to cook.
Our pearl barley comes from whole barley grains that have been gently polished to remove the tough outer husk. What remains is a quick-cooking grain that’s hearty, wholesome, and full of natural fiber.
Mild and slightly nutty in flavour, pearl barley soaks up the taste of whatever it’s cooked with - making it a great addition to soups, stews, salads, or even a warm grain bowl. It stays chewy when cooked and adds a nice bite to meals.
Naturally high in fiber and a source of slow-digesting carbs, it helps support digestion and steady energy. A quiet pantry staple that brings both comfort and nourishment to the table.
Simply rinse it under cold water to remove any excess starch before cooking. For a basic preparation, use a 1:3 ratio of barley to water. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 30–40 minutes or until tender, stirring occasionally. You can enhance its flavor by toasting it in a dry skillet before cooking.
Q. How is pearl barley different from other types of barley?
A. Pearl barley has had its outer layers removed, while other types of barley, such as hulled barley or pot barley, retain these layers. As a result, pearl barley cooks more quickly and has a softer texture, but it also has a slightly lower nutritional value compared to whole barley grains.
Q. What can I do if my cooked pearl barley is too mushy?
A. If your cooked pearl barley is too mushy, it might have been overcooked. To prevent this, make sure to monitor the cooking time and texture. If it's already overcooked, consider using it in dishes where the texture isn't as critical, such as soups or stews.
