Barley

The earliest known cereal to be cultivated by man. Although it was used for bread-making before wheat it is low in gluten and thus makes poor bread. Pearl barley is used in cooking, it is barley that has been hulled and milled. Mainly added to soups, broths and stews, it is also boiled to produce a liquid for barley water. It is also made into flakes and flour. Barley has an individual taste that is slightly sweet and nutty. Requires soaking and boiling - about 45 minutes for pearl barley.