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Barley flakes are flattened and sliced grains that have been hulled. They are similar in appearance to oats and have a nutty flavor. They are high in fiber and may have health benefits, such as preventing breast cancer, diabetes, and childhood asthma. They can be cooked and eaten alone or mixed with other ingredients. They should be rinsed before cooking and stored in an airtight container.
Barley is a type of grain, similar to rice or wheat. The plant from which it is harvested belongs to the same plant family as the herb. Barley flakes are a product that results after freshly harvested barley grains have removed their hard shells, a process known as hulling. Once peeled, each piece of grain is flattened and cut into thin slices. Because the hulls are removed, the flakes may not have the same nutritional value as if the outer shells were left fully or partially intact.
The appearance of barley flakes is similar to commercial oats, with a small, round appearance. The taste of barley flakes is generally considered to have a slightly nut-like flavor. While the flakes aren’t technically a whole grain since they’ve been hulled, they can still share some of the nutrients of other whole grains.
Proponents of the product believe it has a wide range of potential health benefits, thanks to the fiber it contains. Fiber is a substance found mostly in plants that is difficult for the body to digest completely. Eating foods containing fiber, such as barley, is thought to help ensure regular, voluminous bowel movements. Promoters of fiber also believe it can absorb some of the cholesterol in the body and prevent unhealthy blood cholesterol levels. While it hasn’t been conclusively proven, proponents of the health benefits of barley flakes argue that consuming regular amounts of the product has been shown to help prevent breast cancer, diabetes, and childhood asthma.
Barley flakes can be purchased commercially packaged or bulk in containers. After purchase, it is generally recommended to keep them in an airtight container in a cool place. If moisture gets on the flakes, it can ruin them.
Because the produce is harvested from a plant, it can hold dirt and other debris. Before preparing and consuming the flakes, it is recommended to rinse them thoroughly in cold running water to ensure they are clean. Once cleaned, they can be boiled in a hot liquid, such as water or broth, until softened. The cooking time can vary, but is usually between one hour and 90 minutes.
The barley flakes can be eaten alone or mixed with other ingredients. Freshly cooked barley can be served in a bowl with milk and served as a hot cereal, similar to oatmeal or porridge. It can also be used in place of pasta or other starches in dishes such as stews or soups.
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