Do you remember the savory taste of barley tea that your mom used to make when you were a child? That memory came to mind, and I decided to brew some for my baby, too. However, I was concerned about the rumors that store-bought barley tea bags might contain microplastics or other harmful substances. Since it was for my baby, I thought it would be best to make it myself.
So, I ordered unhulled barley online. I had no idea that making barley tea by hand was this much work; I guess nothing in this world is truly easy. After washing the barley thoroughly in a sieve and draining some of the water, I roasted it over low heat, stirring constantly to prevent it from burning. I was a bit nervous about burning it, but it took longer than I expected. Upon closer inspection, some of the barley kernels had popped like popcorn. I continued roasting until they turned a little brown, then I stored them in an airtight container.
After all this hard work, is the homemade barley tea really worth it?
Why Making Homemade Barley Tea is a Great Idea
Making your own barley tea from unhulled barley has many advantages over using store-bought tea bags.
It’s Cleaner and Safer: Some tea bags have been found to contain microplastics. By buying the raw barley, washing it, and roasting it yourself, you can be much more confident that the barley tea you're giving your baby is safe.
A Fresher Taste and Aroma: The unique, savory aroma of freshly roasted barley is unmatched. Every time you brew a new batch, you can enjoy a fresh and deep flavor that's delicious for the whole family, not just the baby.
The Amazing Benefits of Barley Tea and Why It's Good for Babies
Barley tea is a great caffeine-free alternative to water. Its savory, mild flavor makes it enjoyable for people of all ages.
Promotes Digestion: Barley is rich in dietary fiber, which helps with digestion and can relieve constipation. This is particularly beneficial for babies with sensitive digestive systems.
Hydration and Mineral Supply: Brewing barley tea extracts various minerals like calcium and potassium, making it a better hydration source than plain water.
Antioxidant Effects: Barley is rich in antioxidants, which can help boost the immune system.
It's generally recommended to introduce barley tea to babies after they are six months old. Its mild flavor can encourage babies who don't drink much water to stay hydrated. It can also help cool the body during a fever. However, when you first introduce it, be sure to brew it very lightly and only give a small amount, while keeping an eye on your baby's condition.
Homemade Barley Tea: Storage and Consumption Period
Proper storage is crucial for the barley tea you've so carefully made.
Storing Roasted Barley: Store the roasted barley in an airtight container in a cool, dark place. Be careful to avoid moisture, as it can make the barley soggy or grow mold. Stored this way, it can last for several months.
Storing Brewed Barley Tea: After brewing, cool the tea and store it in a sealed bottle in the refrigerator. To prevent bacterial growth, it's best to consume it all within 2-3 days. Re-boiling old tea won't kill all the bacteria, so it's safest to make a fresh batch for your baby each time.