Barley Coffee
A traditional hot drink made by roasting and grinding barley grains; it is caffeine-free and similar to coffee in color and flavor. It has long been known as a coffee alternative in countries such as Türkiye and Italy.
What Is Barley Coffee?
Barley coffee is a caffeine-free hot drink made by roasting and grinding barley grains. It has long been known as a traditional coffee alternative in Türkiye and European countries such as Italy (caffè d’orzo).
Depending on the degree of roasting, its color ranges from light to dark brown, and it has a mildly grainy, roasted flavor; compared with coffee, it has a lighter, smoother profile.
Nutritional Values of Barley Coffee
One cup (approximately 240 ml) of unsweetened barley coffee contains approximately 2 kcal of energy; it is caffeine-free. Values are approximate.
How Should Barley Coffee Be Consumed?
Like other hot drinks, barley coffee is consumed in moderate amounts as part of a balanced diet.
This is general information; barley coffee is a drink, not a substitute for medical treatment. People with gluten sensitivity should avoid this barley-based drink.
How to Choose Barley Coffee
Good barley coffee has a brown color suited to its degree of roasting, a grainy, roasted aroma, and a uniform texture as a powder.
- The color should be brown and suited to the degree of roasting
- It should have a grainy, roasted aroma
- As a powder, it should be uniform and free of clumps
How to Store Barley Coffee
Store barley coffee in a sealed, dry container in a cool place; absorbing moisture can cause clumping and loss of aroma.
Using Barley Coffee in the Kitchen
Barley coffee is most often brewed with hot water or milk and served as a drink; in Italian cuisine, it is sometimes prepared in an espresso machine.
Why Is Barley Coffee Preferred?
Its lack of caffeine is a main reason it is chosen by people sensitive to caffeine or those who want a hot, coffee-like drink in the evening.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is barley coffee real coffee?
No; it contains no coffee beans and is made entirely from barley grains. Only its roasted color and mild flavor evoke coffee.
Can barley coffee be made at home?
Yes; roast barley grains in a dry pan until dark brown, let them cool, and then grind them into a powder.
Is barley coffee available in Türkiye?
It is common; it is available as a ready-made powder from herbal shops, spice shops, and stores that sell health-food products.