If you are using pearl barley you will not need to soak it before you cook it.u003cbr/u003eu003cbr/u003eThis is because pearl barley has a tendency to cook very quickly. If you are using hulled barley you may find that it will benefit from soaking in water for a few hours before you start cooking with it.u003cbr/u003eu003cbr/u003eThis variety also takes longer to cook so make sure to allow plenty of time for that.