Name: Barley and Soy Milk Cooler
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 0.5 cup Pearled barley; 6 cups Water; 2 leaves Pandan leaves, tied in a knot; 0.25 cup Rock sugar; 2 cups Unsweetened soy milk; 1 cup Ice cubes

"This Barley and Soy Milk Cooler is a delightful fusion of earthy, chewy pearled barley and rich, creamy soy milk. Infused with aromatic pandan leaves and lightly sweetened, it serves as the ultimate refreshing tonic for warm afternoons."

Ingredients

Qty	Item
0.5 cup 100 g	Pearled barley
6 cups 1.4 l	Water
2 leaves 2 leaves	Pandan leaves, tied in a knot
0.25 cup 50 g	Rock sugar
2 cups 480 ml	Unsweetened soy milk
1 cup 200 g	Ice cubes

How to Make Barley and Soy Milk Cooler

Rinse the pearled barley under cold running water until the water runs clear.

In a medium pot, combine the rinsed barley, 6 cups of water, and the knotted pandan leaves. Bring to a boil over high heat.

Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 30 to 35 minutes, or until the barley grains are soft and the water has turned slightly opaque.

Stir in the rock sugar until completely dissolved. Remove from heat and discard the pandan leaves.

Allow the barley water and the grains to cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

To serve, fill glasses halfway with the chilled barley and some of its cooking liquid. Top with half a cup of chilled soy milk per glass.

Add ice cubes and stir well before serving.

·
For a nuttier flavor, lightly toast the dry barley in a pan for 2 minutes before boiling.
·
If you prefer a smoother texture, you can strain out the barley grains, though they add a lovely chewiness.
·
Adjust the sweetness by using honey or agave syrup if you do not have rock sugar.
·
Use fresh homemade soy milk for the richest flavor profile.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use hulled barley instead of pearled barley?

Hulled barley can be used, but it requires a much longer soaking and cooking time as it still has the bran layer intact.

How long does the barley water stay fresh?

The barley water (without the soy milk added) can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Is this drink served hot or cold?

While it can be enjoyed warm, it is traditionally served as a 'cooler,' meaning it is best enjoyed chilled with ice.

Why add pandan leaves?

Pandan leaves provide a unique vanilla-like fragrance that is traditional in Southeast Asian barley drinks.

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