Making Barley Water: A Quick, Easy Recipe
What is Barley Water?
Barley water is a refreshing drink made from barley and a few other simple ingredients. It has been around for centuries and is still enjoyed in many countries today. The drink is low in calories, but has a high nutritional value and is a great substitute for sugary drinks and sodas. It is also a great way to stay hydrated throughout the day.
What You Need to Make Barley Water
To make the perfect batch of barley water, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 cup of pearl barley
- 4 cups of cold water
- 1/2 cup of honey
- 1 lemon, sliced
- 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- A pinch of ground nutmeg
How to Make Barley Water
Making barley water is a very simple process. Start by rinsing the barley in a sieve until the water runs clear. Then, place the barley in a large pot and cover with 4 cups of cold water. Bring the mixture to a boil and then reduce the heat and simmer for about 20 minutes. Once the barley is cooked, strain the mixture into a pitcher for storage. To the strained barley water, add the honey, lemon slices, vanilla extract, and a pinch of nutmeg. Stir the mixture until the honey is completely dissolved. Finally, chill the barley water in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving.
Tasting Notes
Barley water has a light, sweet taste that is refreshing and subtly nutty. The lemon slices and vanilla extract add a bright, citrusy flavor to the drink. The addition of honey gives the drink a slight sweetness that helps to balance out the nuttiness of the barley. This recipe makes 4 cups of barley water, but it can easily be doubled or tripled to serve a larger crowd.
Health Benefits of Barley Water
As mentioned earlier, barley water is low in calories, but high in nutrition. It contains vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that help to protect against disease. The barley is an excellent source of dietary fiber, which is beneficial for digestion and weight management. Barley water is also known to have a diuretic effect, which can help to flush out toxins from the body. Finally, the drink can help to reduce inflammation in the body, making it an ideal choice for those suffering from arthritis and other inflammatory conditions.
