Miso Ginger Barley - in one bowl

Miso ginger barley is a rich and savory grain dish that pairs the nutty chewiness of barley with the umami depth of miso and the warm spice of fresh ginger. The addition of garlic, sesame oil, and rice vinegar creates a perfectly balanced, tangy, and aromatic flavor profile. This dish makes an excellent base for bowl meals or a flavorful side that complements roasted vegetables, tofu, or grilled meats.

Fun fact: Barley is one of the oldest cultivated grains, dating back to ancient Mesopotamia. It was a dietary staple for Roman gladiators, who were even nicknamed 'hordearii,' meaning 'barley men,' due to their barley-rich diet.

Learn more about barley at Wikipedia

Ingredients

1 cup pearl barley
3 cups water or vegetable broth
1 tbsp white miso paste
1-inch piece fresh ginger, grated
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tbsp soy sauce or tamari
1 tsp toasted sesame oil
1 tbsp rice vinegar

Instructions

Rinse barley under cold water to remove excess starch.
In a pot, combine barley and water (or broth) and bring to a boil.
Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 25-30 minutes until tender.
Drain excess liquid if necessary and remove from heat.
In a small bowl, whisk together miso paste, grated ginger, minced garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, and rice vinegar.
Stir the miso-ginger mixture into the warm barley until well combined.