Barley Water

Barley water is a traditional, refreshing drink made by simmering pearl barley grains in water, often with a touch of lemon, honey, or fruit for flavor. It has ancient roots in Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, and Asian cuisines, where it has been enjoyed for centuries as a soothing beverage. The drink is typically light, slightly nutty, and served either warm or chilled.

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🍽️ Nutrition at a glance

Barley water is primarily a source of carbohydrates from the barley, with minimal fat and protein. It provides B vitamins, minerals like selenium and manganese, and soluble fiber (beta-glucan), which can support digestion and heart health. A typical unsweetened cup (about 240ml) contains roughly 50-80 calories, depending on preparation.

Nutrition breakdown

Calories	60 kcal
Protein	1.2 g
Carbs	14 g
Fat	0.1 g
Fiber	1.5 g
Sugar	2 g
Sodium	5 mg
Potassium	100 mg
Magnesium	15 mg
Phosphorus	30 mg
Iron	0.5 mg
Niacin (B3)	1.5 mg
Vitamin B6	0.1 mg
Manganese	0.3 mg
Selenium	5 µg

Per 1 cup (240 g) · estimated, varies by recipe

💡 What's interesting

Culturally, barley water has been used as a restorative drink in traditional medicine, believed to aid hydration and recovery. Nutritionally, its beta-glucan content is unique among beverages, offering potential benefits for cholesterol and blood sugar management.