7 barley grain recipes

Cooking grains the foolproof way: two parts water to one part grain, rinse first, simmer covered, never stir. Works for quinoa, rice, millet, and farro. The basic ratio every home cook should know by heart.

Traditional Japanese sweet azuki bean paste (anko) made with adzuki beans, kombu, raisins, and barley malt. Naturally sweetened, vegan, and endlessly versatile for Japanese desserts.

Creamy vegan tempeh party spread with tahini, black olives, cumin, and turmeric, shaped into a ball and served with crackers or veggies. A high-protein, make-ahead appetizer that's a plant-based spin on a cheese ball.

Vegetarian steamed wontons filled with seasoned tempeh, mushrooms, scallions, and ginger in a tamari-honey glaze. Serve with sweet and sour sauce for a plant-based dim sum appetizer.

Vegetarian bean pate purees a 7-bean and barley mix with tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and cumin into a thick Mediterranean-style spread. Serve chilled with whole wheat bread or crackers.

Wheat-free yeast bread combines barley flour and oat flour with honey and a simple rise for a one-loaf workhorse. Naturally wheat-free with hearty grain flavor and a tender crumb.

Vodka can be made from a variety of grains. Barley and wheat are the most common but corn and rye can be used as well. It can also be made from potatoes and beets. Grain vodkas are generally considered to be the best.