Are Barley and Barley Grass the Same Item?
Barley is a grass that produces grain. Both the grain and the grass are used for culinary purposes. The term "barley" generally refers to only the grain in commercial products, although the two are essentially different parts of the same plant.
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Barley Grass
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"Barley grass" refers to the barley plant in its young stage, still a dark green, leafy plant. In this form, barley is similar in taste, appearance and nutrients to leafy green vegetables, rather than a grain. This cereal grass can be juiced and used in much the same way as wheat grass.
Barley Grain
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Barley becomes a grain as the plant fully develops and grows. The harvested grain, commonly referred to as barley, is used whole, rolled or crushed in hot cereals, soups and stews. Barley flour is made by grinding the grain into a fine powder.
Benefits
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Many people who have wheat or barley allergies are able to consume barley grass, rather than the grain, due to its lack of gluten in the grass form. Barley and barley grass are both high in protein and fiber.
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