Barley Bread Recipe Vegan: Easy, Healthy, and Delicious

Baking your own bread is a deeply rewarding experience, especially when you get to enjoy a wholesome, hearty loaf packed with nutrition. Today, we’re diving into a delicious barley bread recipe that’s not only vegan but also incredibly satisfying and easy to make.

Barley, known for its nutty flavor and chewy texture, adds a unique twist to traditional bread, making it a fantastic choice for anyone looking to explore new grains in their baking repertoire.

This barley bread is perfect for those seeking a healthy alternative to refined wheat breads. It’s naturally vegan, free from any animal products, and uses simple pantry ingredients that you probably already have at home.

Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe will guide you step-by-step to create a loaf that’s perfect for sandwiches, toast, or just enjoying with a little olive oil and herbs.

Let’s get started on making this wholesome, flavorful barley bread that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This barley bread recipe is a must-try for several reasons. First, it incorporates barley flour, which is rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making your bread not only tasty but also nourishing.

Unlike typical wheat breads, barley lends a subtle sweetness and a slightly chewy texture that adds interest to every bite.

Moreover, the recipe is fully vegan, relying on natural fermentation and simple ingredients without any eggs, dairy, or honey. The bread has a beautiful crust and a soft, airy crumb inside—ideal for sandwiches or as a side to your favorite soups and stews.

Finally, this bread is incredibly versatile and forgiving, perfect for both beginners and experienced bakers. With just a little patience and love, you’ll produce a loaf that’s as good as any bakery’s!

Ingredients

• 2 cups barley flour (you can use pearled barley ground into flour or buy barley flour)
• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour (or bread flour for more gluten)
• 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
• 1 ¼ cups warm water (about 110°F / 43°C)
• 1 tbsp maple syrup (or agave nectar)
• 1 tsp salt
• 2 tbsp olive oil (plus extra for greasing)

Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Wooden spoon or dough whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Loaf pan (8×4 inches) or baking sheet
• Kitchen towel or plastic wrap
• Oven
• Cooling rack

Instructions

1. Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm water and maple syrup. Sprinkle the yeast over the top, stir gently, and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy. This step ensures your yeast is alive and ready to work magic in your bread.
2. Mix dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the barley flour, all-purpose flour, and salt until evenly combined.
3. Combine wet and dry: Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients. Pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil. Using a wooden spoon or dough whisk, stir until a rough dough forms. It will be sticky—that’s perfect!
4. Knead the dough: Lightly flour your work surface and turn the dough out. Knead for about 8-10 minutes, adding a little flour if necessary to prevent sticking. The dough should be smooth and elastic but still slightly tacky.
5. First rise: Lightly oil a clean bowl, place the dough inside, and cover with a kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 to 1 ½ hours, or until it has doubled in size.
6. Shape the loaf: Once risen, punch down the dough gently to release air. Shape it into a loaf and place it into a greased loaf pan or shape into a freeform loaf and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
7. Second rise: Cover the dough again and let it rise for 30-45 minutes until puffy.
8. Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the bread for 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped.
9. Cool: Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack before slicing. This step is key to getting clean slices and allowing the crumb to set perfectly.

Tips & Variations

Tip: Barley flour contains less gluten than wheat, so mixing it with all-purpose or bread flour helps achieve a better rise and texture.

Variation: Add 1 tbsp of flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tbsp water as an egg replacer for extra moisture and nutrition.

Tip: For a nutty crunch, sprinkle some toasted oats or seeds (like sunflower or pumpkin seeds) on top before baking.

You can also experiment by adding herbs such as rosemary or thyme to the dough for a fragrant loaf. For a sweeter version, mix in dried fruits like raisins or chopped dates.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This barley bread is wonderfully versatile. Here are some tasty ways to enjoy it:

• Toast slices and spread with avocado, cherry tomatoes, and a sprinkle of salt for a quick breakfast or snack.
• Use it for sandwiches, pairing well with vegan deli slices, fresh greens, and mustard.
• Serve alongside hearty soups or stews for a wholesome meal.
• Lightly brush with olive oil and garlic, then toast for a delicious vegan garlic bread.

If you enjoy experimenting with bread, you might also love our Hamburger Bun Sourdough Recipe or try your hand at the flavorful Green Chile Cheese Bread Recipe. For a sweet treat after, check out our Glazed Twist Donut Recipe.

Conclusion

Baking this vegan barley bread is a wonderful way to bring more wholesome grains into your diet while enjoying the comforting ritual of homemade bread. With its nutty flavor, satisfying texture, and simple ingredients, it’s a nourishing choice that fits perfectly into a plant-based lifestyle.

Whether you’re new to baking or an experienced pro, this recipe offers a delicious and healthy option that you can customize to your taste preferences.

Take your time, enjoy the process, and don’t hesitate to experiment with different additions like seeds or herbs. Once you try this barley bread, it’s sure to become a beloved staple in your kitchen, perfect for breakfast, sandwiches, and everything in between.

Happy baking!

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