Lemon barley water

Lemon Barley Water is a refreshing drink made by steeping pearl barley with fresh lemon juice and zest, resulting in a tangy and slightly sweet beverage. Perfect for warm days, it offers a nourishing way to hydrate and detoxify.

10 Jan 2026
Cook time 35 min
Prep time 600 min

Ingredients:

1/2 cup pearl barley
2 lemons
1/2 cup sugar

Lemon Barley Water is a refreshing and nourishing drink popular in many cultures. It's not only deliciously tangy and slightly sweet but also packed with nutrients. This drink is perfect for a hot summer's day or to detoxify your system. Here's a simple recipe to make your own Lemon Barley Water at home.

Instructions:

1. Rinse the Barley:
- Place the pearl barley in a fine-mesh strainer.
- Rinse thoroughly under cold running water until the water runs clear. This helps to remove any dust or impurities.

2. Cook the Barley:
- In a medium-sized saucepan, add the rinsed barley and 6 cups of cold water.
- Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 30 minutes, or until the barley is tender.

3. Strain the Barley:
- After cooking, strain the barley using a fine-mesh sieve.
- Reserve the barley water and set the barley grains aside (you can use the cooked barley in soups or salads).

4. Zest and Juice the Lemons:
- While the barley is cooking, zest the lemons using a fine grater or a zester. Be careful to avoid the white pith, which is bitter.
- After zesting, cut the lemons in half and juice them. You should get about 1/3 to 1/2 cup of lemon juice, depending on the size of the lemons.

5. Combine Ingredients:
- In a large pitcher, combine the strained barley water, lemon zest, lemon juice, and sugar.
- Stir the mixture well until all the sugar has dissolved.

6. Chill:
- Allow the lemon barley water to cool to room temperature, then place it in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or until thoroughly chilled.

7. Serve:
- Before serving, give the lemonade barley water a good stir.
- Pour into glasses over ice cubes for a refreshing drink.
- Optionally, garnish with lemon slices or fresh mint leaves.

This Lemon Barley Water is incredibly easy to make and offers a delightful, refreshing drink that's both tasty and healthy. Whether you're looking to cool down, detox, or simply enjoy a nutritious beverage, this recipe is sure to hit the spot. Enjoy your homemade Lemon Barley Water!

Lemon barley water FAQ:

What is the cooking time for pearl barley in this recipe?

The pearl barley needs to simmer for about 30 minutes until it becomes tender.

How should I store leftover Lemon Barley Water?

Store leftover Lemon Barley Water in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh for up to 3 days.

Can I substitute the sugar with a different sweetener?

Yes, you can substitute sugar with honey, agave syrup, or a sugar-free sweetener, adjusting the amount to taste.

What pan size is recommended for cooking the barley?

A medium-sized saucepan is recommended for cooking the barley, as it needs enough space to boil in 6 cups of water.

How can I tell if the barley is done cooking?

The barley is done cooking when it is tender and has a slightly chewy texture. You can taste a few grains to check for doneness.

Tips:

- For added flavor, consider adding a few sprigs of mint or a piece of ginger while simmering the barley.

- Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less sugar, depending on your taste preferences.

- To make it more refreshing, add some ice cubes before serving.

- Store any leftover Lemon Barley Water in the refrigerator and consume within 2-3 days.

Nutrition per serving

6 Servings
Calories 140kcal
Protein 2.30g
Carbohydrates 36g
Fiber 4.00g
Sugar 18g
Fat 0.38g

Lemon barley water