Pearled Barley

What is pearled barley?

Pearled barley is an ancient grain made by removing part of the outer bran layer, allowing it to cook more quickly while maintaining its pleasantly chewy texture and mild, nutty flavor. It's a versatile Mediterranean pantry staple that's commonly used in soups, salads, pilafs, grain bowls, and hearty side dishes.

What makes this pearled barley different?

Our Pearled Barley is sourced from Italy and is selected for its quality, flavor, and quick cooking time. It's naturally rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making it an easy way to add wholesome ancient grains to everyday Mediterranean cooking.

How is pearled barley different from hulled barley?

Both come from the same grain, but they're processed differently. Pearled barley has part of the outer bran removed, so it cooks faster and has a more tender texture. Hulled barley is less processed and retains more of the bran, requiring a longer cooking time. Pearled barley is an excellent choice when you want the flavor and texture of barley with less preparation.

How do I cook pearled barley?

Bring 3 cups of water to a boil, add 1 cup of pearled barley, season as desired, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook for about 40 minutes, or until the barley is tender with a slight chew. Drain any remaining liquid before serving.

What can I make with pearled barley?

Pearled barley is incredibly versatile. Use it in soups, stews, grain bowls, pilafs, salads, or as a hearty side dish. It's also delicious stuffed into squash or served warm with milk and Greek honey for breakfast. Try it in recipes like Mushroom Barley Soup, Barley Salad with Roasted Vegetables, Soupe Jo (Persian Chicken Barley Soup), or Burbara (Wheat Berry Pudding).

Is pearled barley healthier than rice?

Pearled barley is naturally rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making it a nutritious alternative to rice in many recipes. Its hearty texture also makes meals more satisfying, whether you're preparing soups, salads, or Mediterranean grain bowls.

What is the difference between pearled barley and farro?

Both barley and farro are ancient grains with a pleasantly chewy texture, but they have distinct characteristics. Pearled barley has a mild, slightly nutty flavor and becomes tender and creamy when cooked, making it ideal for soups and stews. Farro has a firmer bite and a richer, nuttier flavor that's especially popular in grain salads and Mediterranean side dishes. Both are versatile pantry staples—the best choice depends on the recipe and texture you're looking for.