Barley is a great grain for either a side dish, a hot or cold cereal or as a main entree when combined with vegetables or lentils. Wheat berry is a crunchy grain which can be served either hot as a side dish or cold as a cereal. It is delightful with low-fat plain yogurt, cinnamon and brown sugar. Quinoa is a grain of the Incas. It can be used similar to rice, making pilaf or another seasoned side dish.
Kasha is another grain which can serve as a rice replacement.
To prepare grains first rinse them well with cool water. Bring water to a boil then add the grain and bring to a second boil. Cover and cooked until all liquid is absorbed. Grains such as amaranth, bulgur and millet take about 25 minutes to cook. Using pressure cookers can reduce the cooking time significantly for those of you on a tight time schedule.