Quench your thirst with this Low Sodium Refreshing Barley Water, a hydrating and naturally soothing drink packed with flavor and health benefits. This recipe combines the mild nuttiness of pearl barley with the zesty brightness of fresh lemon juice, the mellow sweetness of honey, and the invigorating aroma of mint leaves. Perfectly balanced and low in sodium, this all-natural beverage is a fantastic choice for those looking to stay hydrated without artificial additives. Easy to make with just a few wholesome ingredients, this refreshing barley water is simmered to release barleyβs nutrients and then chilled for the perfect crisp finish. Serve it over ice for a rejuvenating treat thatβs ideal on warm days or as a revitalizing pick-me-up. Itβs not just a drinkβitβs a feel-good experience!
Begin by rinsing the pearl barley under cold running water to remove any excess starch.
In a large saucepan, combine the rinsed barley and 8 cups of water. Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring to a gentle boil.
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer, uncovered, for about 30 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent the barley from sticking to the bottom.
After 30 minutes, strain the barley water through a fine mesh sieve into a large heatproof bowl or pitcher, discarding the solids. Ensure all the liquid is drained and let it cool to room temperature.
While the barley water is cooling, juice the lemon and strain it to remove any seeds or pulp.
Once the barley water has cooled, stir in the freshly squeezed lemon juice and honey until well combined.
Rinse and roughly tear the mint leaves and add them to the barley water. Stir gently to release the mint's aroma.
Chill the barley water in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to infuse.
Serve the barley water over ice cubes and garnish with extra mint leaves if desired.
Store any leftover barley water in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Shake or stir well before serving.
Calories |
858 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 2.6 g | 3% | |
| Saturated Fat | 0.5 g | 2% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.1 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 85 mg | 4% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 196.9 g | 72% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 33.5 g | 120% | |
| Total Sugars | 37.8 g | ||
| Protein | 21.0 g | 42% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 211 mg | 16% | |
| Iron | 5.8 mg | 32% | |
| Potassium | 706 mg | 15% | |
*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.