Barley is a grain that has a cooling effect and is akin to nectar during the summer season. Women in India are skilled in culinary arts and use various ingredients adeptly. In our country, barley is also used in its finest form. By blending wheat, chickpeas, and barley, a flour is prepared, from which rotis (flatbreads) are made. These are highly digestive. Wheat contains its store of vitamins, chickpeas have their own benefits, and barley has its qualities. Nowadays, as the heat intensifies, everything that provides relief from the heat and protects from heatstroke is being prepared.
Among these, one drink stands out as a medicinal elixir—barley rava drink. To make barley rava, around a bowlful of barley is soaked in a large container overnight. In the morning, after draining the water, it is spread on a cloth to dry. When it retains a little moisture, it is crushed with a grinding stone or manually with hands in a vessel like an okhli (mortar and pestle). The outer covering of barley separates, and its grains are obtained, known as rava. These grains resemble rice and are spread out and prepared like porridge. A pinch of salt is added during preparation, according to taste. While making it, buttermilk is also added with water and stirred continuously; otherwise, there’s a risk of curdling. It is cooked on low flame. Once it boils, the froth that forms is removed using a sieve.
After the porridge is cooked, it is left to cool overnight. It can be kept in the fridge overnight and in the morning, it can be ground in a grinder and made into a drink by adding cold buttermilk. After grinding, it is strained. The saltiness should be adjusted according to taste, and for aesthetics, mint leaves, pomegranate seeds, and small pieces of cucumber can be added on top. Drinking it brings a refreshing feeling, and after consuming barley rava, one feels content throughout the day as it prevents the scorching heat from affecting.
Barley is so nutritious and beneficial that it benefits individuals in every form. Barley possesses numerous qualities like protein, carbohydrates, fats, and many minerals, which are beneficial for bones. It improves the digestive system, regulates cholesterol, maintains balanced weight without causing excessive gain or loss.
Barley rava drink is not only health-enhancing but also delicious. After consuming it, one feels a cooling sensation in the stomach throughout the day, which leads to a contented mind and better focus at work.