Food Snippets: Barley

Barley with its chewy texture and slightly nutty flavour when cooked
is a major cereal grain and is a member of the grass family.

It is starchy, hence it can be prepared like grains such as couscous or rice.

Barley is said to have originated in Ethiopia and Southeast Asia, and
has been cultivated for more than 10,000 years.

In ancient times, it was used as food for people and animals and to
make alcoholic beverages.

Barley water was also used for various medicinal purposes.

High in fiber: Barley is a major cereal grain, a member of the grass family.
Although in this region, barley is often consumed as a drink, it can
also be used in soups, stews and breads.

Whole grain barley is high in fiber, rich in protein and is good for
the health as it is is regarded as having numerous health benefits.

Barley contains high levels of dietary fiber and selenium (a type of
antioxidant).

Recent studies suggest that a diet high in beta-glucan from barley
helps lower blood LDL cholesterol (bad cholesterol).

Barley may also help stabilise blood glucose levels, which may benefit
people with diabetes.

Sprouted barley is naturally high in maltose, a sugar that serves as
the basis for malt syrup sweetener.

When fermented, barley is used as an ingredient in beer and certain
distilled beverages.

It is the main ingredient in the making of beer and whisky.

It also serves as a major animal fodder and as a component of various
health foods.

In appearance, it resembles wheat berries, but it is slightly lighter in colour.