Barley

Barley is one of the oldest grains in the world. Farmers have grown it for over 10,000 years. It looks like long, golden seeds that grow on tall stalks. People eat barley and also feed it to animals like cows and horses.

The History of Barley

Barley was one of the first plants that humans ever farmed. It started in the Middle East long ago. Ancient Egyptians made bread and beer from barley. Roman soldiers ate barley to stay strong. Even today, barley is grown in almost every country.

How We Use Barley

Barley has a chewy feel and a mild, nutty taste. It is often added to hot soups and stews to make them thick and filling. People also use it to make cereal and flour for bread. Scotland is famous for barley soup called Scotch broth. Animals eat a lot of barley too.

Fun Facts

• Barley can grow in places that are too cold for other grains.
• Ancient athletes in Greece ate barley before big contests.
• Barley is the fourth most grown grain in the world.

Did You Know?

The inch was once measured by lining up three grains of barley end to end.