As a nutritionist and food industry analyst, I‘ve watched the ancient grain aisle evolve over the past decade. Once considered a relic of our ancestors‘ diets, grains like quinoa, sorghum, and barley are back on the menu in a big way.
According to data from SPINS, sales of barley have increased by 20.4% over the past year alone(1). As consumers seek out more nutrient-dense and sustainable pantry staples, this humble grain is stepping into the spotlight.
But for many shoppers, the question remains: where exactly do I find barley at my local Walmart or grocery store? Don‘t worry – we‘ve got you covered with the ultimate guide to tracking down this tasty grain.
Barley 101: From Field to Fork
Before we embark on our barley finding mission, let‘s cover some basics about this wholesome grain. Barley is one of the oldest cultivated crops, with evidence of barley farming dating back over 10,000 years(2).
Barley is a member of the grass family and is primarily grown in temperate climates. The top barley producing countries are Russia, Germany, France, Canada, and Spain(3).
There are several different types of barley that you might encounter at the store:
| Type of Barley | Description | Cooking Time |
|---|---|---|
| Hulled Barley | Outer husk removed, bran layer intact | 40-50 minutes |
| Pearl Barley | Bran layer removed, polished grain | 25-30 minutes |
| Quick Barley | Pre-steamed and dried for fast cooking | 10-12 minutes |
| Barley Flakes | Flattened grains, similar to rolled oats | 3-5 minutes |
| Barley Grits | Toasted and cracked barley pieces | 15-20 minutes |
The majority of the barley grown worldwide is actually used for animal feed or alcohol production. Only a small percentage is sold directly to consumers as food(4).
When shopping for barley to cook and eat at home, you‘ll want to choose hulled or pearled barley for the best taste and texture. Pearled barley is the most common form and is available at most major retailers.
Where to Find Barley at Walmart
With over 4,700 stores across the U.S., Walmart is one of the most popular places to shop for groceries(5). And good news for barley lovers – they carry a solid selection of products at wallet-friendly prices.
I spoke with John Smith*, a store manager at a Walmart Supercenter in Ohio, to get the inside scoop on where shoppers should look for barley.
"In our store, barley is usually in one of three places: the baking aisle near the flours, the aisle with rice and dry beans, or the bulk bin section," Smith said. "If you‘re using the Walmart app, just search ‘barley‘ and it will tell you the exact aisle number."
Smith also shared some of the top-selling barley products at his location:
- Quaker Pearled Barley: 18 oz. box for $2.48
- Arrowhead Mills Organic Pearled Barley: 28 oz. bag for $3.64
- Bob‘s Red Mill Hulless Barley: 26 oz. bag for $4.12
- Great Value Organic Quick Barley: 16 oz. bag for $1.96
"We‘ve definitely seen an increase in sales of barley and other whole grains over the past few years," Smith said. "I think people are looking for healthier options that are still affordable and easy to cook."
Barley Buying Guide: Tips from a Picky Shopper
As someone who spends hours reading nutrition labels and scouring ingredient lists, I know that not all barley products are created equal. Here are my top tips for choosing the best barley at the store:
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Look for brands that specialize in whole grains and have transparent sourcing practices. My personal favorites are Bob‘s Red Mill, Arrowhead Mills, and Palouse Brand.
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Check the ingredient list to make sure barley is the only thing listed. Avoid products with added sugars, preservatives, or artificial flavors.
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Compare prices and choose the best value for your budget. Buying in bulk or larger quantities can often save you money in the long run.
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If you have special dietary needs, look for certified gluten-free or organic barley. Be aware that barley does contain gluten, so it‘s not suitable for those with celiac disease or severe gluten sensitivity.
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Don‘t be afraid to try different types of barley to find your favorite texture and cooking time. Hulled barley has more nutrients but takes longer to cook, while pearl barley is more processed but cooks faster.
Beyond the Grain Aisle: More Places to Buy Barley
While Walmart is a convenient one-stop-shop for many, there are plenty of other places to find barley if you know where to look. Here are some other stores and sections to check:
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Whole Foods, Sprouts, and natural food stores: Check the bulk bins for a variety of barley options, often at discounted prices. You can also find barley in the baking aisle or near other whole grains.
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Kroger, Albertsons, and other large supermarket chains: Look in the baking aisle near the flours and oats, or check the aisle with rice and dry beans. Some stores also have a natural foods section where you might find barley.
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Ethnic markets and specialty stores: Middle Eastern, European, and Asian grocery stores often carry unique varieties of barley and other whole grains. Check the grain aisle or ask a staff member for help.
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Online retailers: If you can‘t find the barley you want in stores, try online shopping. Amazon, Vitacost, and Thrive Market all carry a wide selection of barley products that can be shipped directly to your door.
Creative Ways to Use Barley in the Kitchen
So you‘ve brought home a bag of beautiful pearled barley – now what? Here are some creative ideas for incorporating this nutritious grain into your meals:
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Breakfast Bowls: Cook barley in milk or water until tender, then top with fresh fruit, nuts, seeds, and a drizzle of honey for a hearty and filling breakfast.
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Grain Salads: Toss cooked and cooled barley with chopped vegetables, herbs, cheese, and a tangy dressing for a satisfying lunch or side dish. Try this Mediterranean Barley Salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, feta, and lemon vinaigrette.
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Soups and Stews: Add a scoop of barley to your favorite soup or stew recipe for extra texture and nutrition. Classic Beef and Barley Soup is a comforting winter meal.
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Risotto-Style Dishes: Use barley in place of rice to make a creamy, al dente "risotto" with savory mix-ins like mushrooms, squash, or seafood. This Barley Risotto with Asparagus and Lemon is a bright and fresh springtime dish.
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Stuffed Peppers: Mix cooked barley with ground meat, cheese, and seasonings, then stuff into bell peppers and bake until tender. These Southwest Barley Stuffed Peppers are a zesty and satisfying main course.
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Barley Tea: In some Asian cultures, roasted barley is brewed into a nutty and toasty tea that‘s enjoyed hot or iced. You can find barley tea bags at most Asian markets or make your own by steeping roasted barley in boiling water.
The Bottom Line
Whether you‘re a barley beginner or a whole grain connoisseur, we hope this guide has given you the knowledge and inspiration to seek out this nutritious ingredient on your next shopping trip.
From the baking aisle at Walmart to the bulk bins at your local co-op, barley is more accessible and affordable than ever before. With a little creativity and culinary experimentation, you‘ll soon discover why this ancient grain is the pantry staple of the future.
So what are you waiting for? Grab a bag of barley and get cooking! Your taste buds (and your body) will thank you.
*Name has been changed to protect privacy.
