About Pearl Barley
Pearl Barley - Versatile, Nutritious Wholegrain for Everyday Cooking
Buy pearl barley online from Real Foods - polished barley grains that cook relatively quickly while retaining chewy texture and mild, nutty flavour. Ideal for soups, stews, risottos, salads, pilafs and side dishes. Available in the UK in retail packs of 500g and 1kg, with a 10kg bulk/wholesale sack for larger kitchens and food businesses.
Key Selling Points
High-quality pearl barley with mild, nutty taste
Perfect for soups, stews, risottos, salads and casseroles
Available online in 500g and 1kg retail packs
10kg bulk/wholesale sack available for caterers
Provides fibre, vitamins and minerals
Easy to cook and extremely versatile
How to Use Pearl Barley
Rinse before cooking, then simmer in water or stock until tender yet chewy. Add to soups and stews for extra body and nutrition, mix into grain salads, serve as a side pilaf or use in hearty casseroles. Barley pairs well with roasted vegetables, legumes and fresh herbs.
Nutritional Benefits
Pearl barley contains dietary fibre, complex carbohydrates, B vitamins, selenium and magnesium. Its high soluble fibre content supports digestive health and may help regulate cholesterol levels. The grain's slow-release energy profile makes it excellent for balanced meals that maintain fullness and support metabolic health.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Is pearl barley healthy?
A: Yes - it's rich in dietary fibre, B vitamins, minerals and slow-release carbohydrates that support digestive health and overall wellbeing.
Q: How long does pearl barley take to cook?
A: Simmer for about 30-40 minutes until tender but still chewy. Soaking overnight can shorten cooking time.
Q: Can pearl barley be used in salads?
A: Absolutely - it adds texture and nutrition to salads when cooked and cooled.
Q: Is a bulk option available?
A: Yes - a 10kg bulk/wholesale sack is available for commercial kitchens and caterers.
If you'd like to know more about pearl barley, including recipe ideas and nutrients, have a look at our article How Do I Cook Pearl Barley.
Looking for a different grain to try? Try our Real Foods Guide to Grains for some old favourites and new ideas.
Customer reviews
I was trying to introduce a greater variety of grains into my diet and came across the recipe for a pearl barley risotto on this site. I tried it recently and loved it. I'll definitely be making it again soon.
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I've started using pearl barley in my soups and stews, and it's fantastic! It adds a lovely, chewy texture and absorbs flavours beautifully. This pearl barley is high quality and cooks perfectly every time.
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I'm really pleased with this pearl barley. It makes a hearty addition to risottos and pilafs, bringing a wonderful depth to the dish. I appreciate the quality and will definitely purchase again!
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This pearl barley is a staple in my pantry! I love how versatile it is—great in salads or as a side dish. It cooks quickly and adds a nutritious element to my meals.
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I love adding pearl barley to soups and casseroles to give a bit more depth and thickness. I find I then do not need any other carbohydrate with the meal.
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Disclaimer
Please be aware that while we take every care to ensure the product information that is displayed on our website is correct, manufacturers often change their product recipes. This may affect nutrition, ingredient, and allergen information. Therefore you should always check product labels before use, and not rely solely on the information presented here. If you require specific advice on any Real Foods own label branded product, please contact our Customer services department. For all other brands, please contact the brand owner directly.