What Is Caffè d’Orzo (Barley Coffee)?

Barley coffee isn't actually coffee at all. It's a caffeine-free beverage made from roasted and ground barley grains. This ancient drink has been enjoyed for thousands of years, but gained particular popularity during World War II when traditional coffee was expensive and hard to find. Today, it's cherished for both its unique flavor profile and impressive health benefits.

Unlike regular coffee, barley coffee contains no caffeine, making it an excellent option for those who need to avoid stimulants but still crave that warm, comforting ritual of enjoying a hot beverage.

Can I dress it up like regular coffee?

Absolutely. Add milk, cream, plant-based alternatives, cinnamon, honey, or whatever you normally enjoy in your coffee. It's incredibly versatile.

Barley coffee isn't just a tasty substitute, it has so many health benefits that might make you reconsider your daily coffee habit.

Your digestive system will be the first to notice the difference. Barley coffee gently stimulates digestion without the acidity that often comes with regular coffee. If you've ever dealt with that uncomfortable bloated feeling or occasional constipation, the natural fiber in barley coffee helps keep things moving smoothly.

If you're watching your blood sugar, barley coffee could be a game-changer. It contains these certain compounds called beta-glucans that actually help control glucose levels naturally. They slow down how quickly your body absorbs carbs, which helps prevent those energy crashes we all dread. This makes it a smart choice for anyone with diabetes or those just trying to maintain steady energy throughout the day.

Regular barley coffee drinkers often see improvements in their cholesterol levels, and the potassium and magnesium it contains are exactly what your cardiovascular system needs to stay in top shape. Unlike regular coffee, which can sometimes cause temporary spikes in blood pressure, barley coffee tends to be much gentler on your circulatory system.

The natural compounds in barley help calm inflammation throughout your body, potentially easing everything from joint discomfort to respiratory issues. Its antioxidants fight the free radicals that contribute to aging and disease.

At only about 20 calories per cup, it's waistline-friendly. It's packed with minerals like iron, phosphorus, and potassium that your body craves. And since it won't interfere with your sleep like caffeinated drinks can, you can enjoy it any time of day, even right before bed if you're craving something warm and soothing.

Preparing barley coffee is straightforward with several methods to choose from, depending on your equipment and time available:

Using instant barley coffee powder:

This method offers convenience and consistency for busy mornings:

1. Bring water to a boil.
2. Measure 1-2 teaspoons of instant barley coffee powder into your cup.
3. Add hot water and stir thoroughly.
4. Add milk or sweeteners according to your preference.
5. Enjoy immediately.

Preparation with a moka pot:

For those who appreciate traditional brewing methods:

1. Fill the bottom chamber with cold water up to the valve.
2. Place ground barley coffee in the filter basket (do not tamp).
3. Assemble the pot and place on the stove over medium-low heat.
4. Remove from heat once the brewing process is complete.
5. Serve in small cups for an authentic experience.

Standard coffee maker method:

Utilize your existing coffee equipment for convenience:

1. Place ground barley coffee in the filter basket (use the same amount as you would regular coffee).
2. Add cold water to the reservoir.
3. Start the brewing cycle as normal.
4. Once complete, serve and enjoy your freshly brewed barley coffee.

Curious about other caffeine-free options beyond barley coffee? Explore our other article to coffee substitutes that deliver on taste without the caffeine jitters.

Like anything in life, barley coffee isn't perfect for absolutely everyone:

• If you have celiac disease or are sensitive to gluten, you'll want to steer clear since barley contains gluten.
• Like all roasted foods, it contains small amounts of acrylamide, so enjoying it in moderation is the way to go.

It is important to note that some people might experience a bit of digestive adjustment when first introducing barley into their diet.

Looking for another healthy coffee alternative that may help with weight management? Discover how adding a coconut oil to your morning brew could boost your metabolism.

Curious how they stack up against each other? Here's the quick comparison:

• While your regular coffee delivers that caffeine punch that gets you moving in the morning, barley coffee offers a gentler, more sustained kind of energy without the crash.
• The flavor is noticeably different. Where coffee tends to be strong and sometimes bitter, barley coffee has a milder, nuttier taste with earthy undertones that many people find really comforting.
• Regular coffee's acidity can trigger heartburn or discomfort for many people, while barley coffee tends to be much easier on your digestive system.
• Health-wise, both have their benefits, but barley coffee edges ahead with its digestive perks and blood sugar regulation properties. Plus, you can enjoy it any time of day without worrying about it messing with your sleep schedule.

The best part is that you don't have to give up your regular coffee entirely. In fact, many people enjoy both, reaching for barley coffee in the afternoon or evening when they want something comforting without the caffeine.

Now that you know about barley coffee's benefits, discover how the grounds from your regular brew can transform your skincare routine with our DIY exfoliation guide.

If you want to read similar articles to What Is Caffè d’Orzo (Barley Coffee)?, we recommend you visit our Food & drink category.