How to Cook Barley

Cook barley perfectly every time in 3 easy steps

Hulless Barley on the Stovetop

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Hulless Barley in an Instant Pot

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Barley Flakes in the Microwave

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Barley Flakes on the Stovetop

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between hulless, hulled, pearled, and pot barley?

Hulless barley is a whole grain, the most minimally processed and not polished or “pearled”.

Hulled barley has been lightly processed and polished but is still considered a whole grain.

Pot barley has been processed and polished, more so than hulled barley but less than pearled.

Pearled barley isn’t a whole grain and has been highly polished but is still rich in fiber and cooks quickly.

Is barley a whole grain?

Barley can be a whole grain depending on the form it is in. When purchasing barley and looking for a whole grain, choose hulless or hulled barley. Pot and pearled barley are not a whole grain, however, it still contains rich amounts of fiber and nutrients.

Is barley a GMO?

No, there are only 10 GMO crops in the United States and barley is not one of them.

Does barley contain gluten?

Yes, barley contains gluten.

What’s special about the fiber in barley compared to other grains?

Barley contains the most fiber of all grains, with most varieties clocking in around 17% and some as high as 35%. Unlike other grains, barley’s fiber is found in the whole kernel so even non-whole grain options contain fiber. In addition, barley contains the most amount of beta-glucan fiber; a form of dietary fiber strongly linked to lowering insulin resistance and blood cholesterol, reducing the risk of obesity and boosting heart health.