Step 1

Rinse the pearl barley and remove any foreign material or less than perfect grains.

Step 2

Over medium-high heat in a deep pot bring the barley and 10 cups of water to boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover partially with a lid and simmer for 40 minutes.**

Step 3

Remove from the heat and strain the whitish barley water into an appropriately sized pitcher or clean pot. You can reserve the grains to use in a barley salad, smoothies etc.

Step 4

If you want to sweeten with honey, add the honey while the water is still hot and stir to dissolve. Serve hot - like tea, with lemon juice and lemon slice garnish or let cool down and flavor with lemon or other fruit of your choice. Keep refrigerated.