How to Cook Barley

Preheat your oven to 375°F.

1 cup pearl barley
2 cups hot water
1/2 tbsp vegetable or olive oil
3/4 tsp salt

Heat the water until boiling in a pot or tea kettle. While the water heats, add the barley and salt to a loaf pan or 8-inch square baking dish (I always use a pyrex dish). Cover the rice with the boiling water, add the oil, and stir briefly. Cover the pan tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 50-55 minutes, until the water is absorbed. Makes 4 servings.

Variations:

For herbed barley, sub 1 cup of vegetable broth for 1 cup water and add 1/2 tsp dried thyme, 1/2 tsp dried minced onion, and black pepper to taste.