Sip your way to hydration and vitality with this Low Fat Refreshing Barley Water, a classic recipe reinvented for modern health enthusiasts. Made with wholesome pearl barley, fresh citrus zest and juice from lemon and orange, and naturally sweetened with a touch of honey, this invigorating drink is perfect for cooling off on a warm day. Packed with antioxidants and fiber, it offers a nourishing boost while remaining light and low in fat. The optional addition of fresh mint leaves elevates its refreshing qualities, making it an ideal beverage for detoxing or simply enjoying as a guilt-free treat. Ready in just over an hour, including refrigeration time, this easy homemade barley water blends simplicity with healthful benefits, creating a crowd-pleasing drink that's as delicious as it is wholesome. Perfect for anyone seeking a naturally refreshing, low-fat beverage!
Rinse the barley thoroughly under cold running water to remove any dirt and dust.
In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the rinsed barley and 6 cups of water.
Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 30 minutes.
While the barley is cooking, wash the lemon and orange. Use a zester or a fine grater to zest both fruits, being careful to only remove the colorful part and avoid the bitter white pith.
Cut the zested lemon and orange in half and squeeze out the juice into a bowl. Remove any seeds.
Once the barley has simmered for 30 minutes, remove the saucepan from the heat and let it cool slightly for about 10 minutes.
Strain the barley water through a fine mesh sieve into a large heat-safe bowl or jug, discarding the cooked barley or saving for another use.
Add the citrus juice, zest, and honey to the warm barley water, stirring well to combine.
Allow the barley water to cool completely, then refrigerate for at least one hour or until thoroughly chilled.
Before serving, taste and adjust the sweetness with more honey if desired.
Serve the barley water chilled, garnished with mint leaves if using. Enjoy your refreshing, low-fat drink!
Calories |
566 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 1.5 g | 2% | |
| Saturated Fat | 0.3 g | 2% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.1 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 64 mg | 3% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 133.4 g | 49% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 20.2 g | 72% | |
| Total Sugars | 48.4 g | ||
| Protein | 12.1 g | 24% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 194 mg | 15% | |
| Iron | 3.6 mg | 20% | |
| Potassium | 621 mg | 13% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.