Learn how to cook different types of barley with detailed step-by-step instructions and helpful tips. As a result, you will have tender and chewy hulled, pearl, or quick barley to add to salads, bowls, soups, and more.
Soak hulled barley for at least 2 hours or better overnight. Skip soaking if using pearl barley. Rinse barley a few times under cold water.
In a medium pot, add 3 cups of water, 1 cup of barley and some salt. Bring to boil, cover, and simmer hulled barley for about 45-60 minutes or pearl barley for 30-45 minutes. The barley is cooked when most of the water is absorbed, the grain is slightly chewy and tender. Drain the access water if needed.