What Can I Cook With Barley?
20 delicious dish ideas to try with barley
Got barley in your kitchen? Here are quick and easy dishes you can make right now - from Indian classics to global favorites. No long recipes, just pure inspiration.
20 Dishes You Can Make With Barley
Common Mistakes When Cooking Barley
- ✕Don't confuse pearl barley with hulled barley - they cook at different rates
- ✕Soak barley for 4-8 hours to reduce cooking time
- ✕Don't rush barley - it needs 30-45 minutes to cook properly
- ✕Use plenty of water - barley absorbs a lot of liquid
- ✕Don't add salt too early - it can make barley tough
How to Store Barley
Dry barley lasts 1-2 years. Cooked barley lasts 3-5 days in the fridge.
Learn more about barley storageFrequently Asked Questions
What can I cook with barley?
Barley soup, barley risotto, barley salad, barley porridge, or mushroom barley soup are all hearty options.
Is barley good for health?
Yes, barley is high in soluble fiber (great for cholesterol), contains beta-glucan, and is rich in vitamins and minerals.
What is the fastest dish to make with barley?
Quick-cooking barley takes 10-15 minutes. Barley water (lemon barley) takes 20 minutes and is very refreshing.
Can barley be frozen?
Yes, cooked barley freezes well for up to 3 months. Spread on a tray first, then bag for easy portioning.
What spices go well with barley?
Thyme, rosemary, bay leaf, garlic, black pepper, mushrooms, and lemon all complement barley beautifully.