A Dietitian's View

When it comes to adding fiber to the diet, barley is an excellent choice. That’s because both types of fiber—soluble and insoluble—are found throughout the entire barley kernel and not just in the outer bran layer. Even though the outer bran layer may be removed in processed barley products such as pearl barley, barley flakes or barley flour, the fiber content remains high. All forms of barley contain soluble and insoluble fiber and provide important health-promoting benefits.

* Pearl barley is readily available in most supermarkets and may be found next to dry beans, rice and lentils. Some supermarkets may also carry quick cooking barley. These kernels have been steamed and dried prior to packaging and require less cooking time.
* Barley flakes are made from barley kernels that have been steamed-rolled and dried. Barley flakes may be cooked as a hot cereal or used as an ingredient in baked goods. They may be found in the bulk foods sections of some supermarkets.
* Barley flour may be found in some supermarkets with other packaged flour products or in bulk containers. Barley flour may be used to add fiber to baked goods.
* Barley is also used as an ingredient in commercially prepared foods such as ready-to-eat cereals, hot cereals, cereal bars, canned soups and pilaf mixes.

In the Kitchen with Barley
* Cook up a batch of pearl barley and add to prepared soups, stews, casseroles and salads for an extra shot of flavor, texture and fiber.
* For a heart-healthy change of pace, serve your favorite stir-fry, stroganoff or curry over a bed of steaming hot pearl barley.

Barley-Orange Pilaf

1 cup pearl barley
3 cups water
1/2 cup chopped pitted dates
1/2 cup chopped dried apricots
3 tablespoons orange marmalade
3/4 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/2 cup slivered and toasted almonds

In a medium saucepan with lid bring water to a boil. Add barley and return to boil. Reduce heat to low, cover and cook 45 minutes or until barley is tender and liquid is absorbed. Set aside. Spray large skillet with non-stick cooking spray; add dates, apricots and marmalade. Cook over medium heat, stirring, for 3 minutes. Blend in cumin, salt and pepper. Cook 2 minutes longer. Stir in cooked barley and almonds. Reduce heat to medium-low and cook until warmed through.
Makes 4 servings.
Per serving: calories 436, protein 10g, carbohydrates 82g, fiber 13g (including 2.5g soluble fiber), fat 10g, cholesterol 0, sodium 306mg.