Pros
- Exceptionally fresh with no dirt or debris
- High germination for reliable sprouting
- Versatile across cooking, brewing, and animal feed uses
- Supports small family farm with thoughtful packaging
- Nutrient-dense with rich nutty flavor
Cons
- Requires 24-hour soak before cooking
- Intact hulls create chewy texture some dislike
- Longer cooking time compared to hulled grains
Joseph's Grainery Unhulled Whole Grain Barley is a 12-pound bulk package of premium, hull-intact barley grown on a family farm in Washington's Palouse Region. This non-GMO, kosher-certified grain appeals to home brewers needing quality brewing ingredients, health-conscious cooks incorporating it into soups and stews, sprouting enthusiasts, and pet owners making nutritious dog food. Its natural state preserves maximum fiber and nutrients for better digestion and overall wellness.
Customers rave about its real-world performance, noting a rich nutty flavor, chewy pasta-like texture, and high germination rate for sprouting with minimal failures. It excels in diverse uses like fermenting for chicken feed, grinding into flour, or mixing into stews with turkey and veggies. Reviewers highlight its cleanliness, lack of preservatives, and freshness direct from the grower, outperforming store-bought options.
Build quality shines through thoughtful packaging in two brown paper bags with labels and recipe cards, making it gift-worthy. The grain arrives vibrant and ready for long-term storage or immediate use, supporting small businesses without compromising on quality.
Drawbacks include the need for a 24-hour soak and extended cooking time, plus intact hulls that add chewiness some find off-putting, though many adapt easily. Start with small servings to adjust to the fiber boost.
Overall, this barley earns its 4.5-star rating as a top pick for those valuing nutrient-dense, versatile whole grains. Buy it if you seek farm-fresh authenticity and broad utility.
Item Weight: 12 Pounds (192 Ounces)
Manufacturer: JosephsGrainery.com
ASIN: B003A162H6
Best Sellers Rank: #82,436 in Grocery & Gourmet Food; #103 in Beer Brewing Ingredients
Customer Reviews: 4.5 out of 5 stars
Is Discontinued By Manufacturer: No