Pearl Barley Water

In most Chinese households in Singapore, Barley Water is a popular and healthy drink. One known to have a cooling effect on our bodies so what does one do when it's hot outside? Yes! make this drink! :) The barley grains are also a good source of fibre, has anti-oxidant and healing properties so it's better to eat rather than discard the grains to enjoy the full goodness from it. Also, the best thing about it is that it's so easy to make!!!

Ingredients
100g Pearl Barley (Rinsed under running water)
3 Pandan/Screwpine Leaves (Rinsed and tied into a knot) - Optional
10 candied winter melon - Optional
1.2l of water
Rock Sugar to taste

Pandan/Screwpine Leaves

Candied Winter Melon

Method
1) Place Pearl Barley, Pandan Leaves, Candied Winter Melon and water in a pot and bring to boil.
2) Once boiled, lower the heat and simmer for about 45 mins.
3) At this point, add rock sugar to taste. I didn't add any as the water was already slightly sweet from the candied winter melon.
4) Strain off the grains immediately as it'll start to soak up the liquid if it's left sitting in the water. Just add the grains back to the water once you've scooped it into a cup.
5) Drink hot or cold. It's pretty refreshing when it's cold.