Want to introduce barley into the daily diet but don’t know how to add this healthy grain? Then follow us through these easy yet interesting ways to include barley in the day-to-day cooking. Read on and try out these easy delights.
Why barley?
There’s no denying that barley is a super healthy and nutritious grain that has been a staple in many cultures for centuries. But over the years, this healthy grain has gained popularity around the world for its high nutritional value and gluten-free composition, which makes it a perfect addition to a healthy diet.
Nutrients in barley
Barley grains are naturally loaded with fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that help in improving overall digestive health, stabilizing blood sugar levels, and supporting heart health. If you are looking for ways to include more barley in your daily meals, here are six easy and delicious methods to enjoy this wholesome grain.
Soups and Stews
One of the simplest and most comforting ways to add barley to your daily diet is by incorporating it into soups and stews. Barley has a nutty flavor and chewy texture that pair wonderfully with a variety of vegetables, meats, and legumes. Add it to your favorite soup recipe so whether it’s a hearty vegetable soup, a classic chicken stew, or a meat barley soup for a nutritious and filling addition. Barley absorbs flavors beautifully and provides a great source of soluble fiber, which helps with digestion.
Barley Salad
Barley makes a great base for a refreshing and nutritious salad. Cooked barley can be tossed with a variety of fresh vegetables, such as cucumbers, tomatoes, and bell peppers, and dressed with olive oil, lemon, and herbs. You can also add protein-rich ingredients like chickpeas, feta cheese, or grilled chicken to make the salad a complete meal. Barley salads are perfect for meal prep and can be enjoyed cold, making them an ideal option for summer lunches or picnics.
Barley Porridge
Start your day with a nutritious and hearty breakfast by making barley porridge. Similar to oatmeal, barley can be cooked with milk or a dairy-free alternative and sweetened with honey, maple syrup, or fruit. You can add cinnamon, nutmeg, and chopped nuts for extra flavor and texture. Barley porridge is an excellent source of slow-digesting carbohydrates, which provide sustained energy throughout the morning.
Smoothies
If you’re looking for a quick and easy way to add barley to your daily diet, try blending cooked or sprouted barley into your smoothies. Barley is mild in flavor, so it blends easily with fruits like bananas, berries, and mangoes. It can add a creamy texture and a boost of fiber to your smoothie without overpowering the taste. Barley also provides a good source of plant-based protein, making it a great addition to post-workout smoothies.
Baking
Another great way to add barley to your daily diet is by using barley flour in your baking. Barley flour can be substituted for part of the regular flour in recipes for bread, muffins, pancakes, or cookies. It adds a slightly nutty flavor and increases the fiber content of baked goods. Using barley flour in baking can help improve the nutritional profile of your favorite treats while providing the benefits of whole grains.
Side Dish
Barley can easily replace rice or quinoa as a healthy side dish. Simply cook the barley and serve it alongside your main course, such as grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or a stir-fry. Barley’s chewy
