There are 3 types of barley sold in stores: Hulled, Pearled and quick-cooking. Pearl barley is the most common type of barley sold in grocery stores. If a package doesn't specify the type of barley, it's usually pearled. Most recipes (like this one) call for pearled barley because it's the easiest to find and has a shorter cooking time than hulled barley. Hulled barley has a longer cooking time and retains its shape and chewy texture better, becoming less soft as it cooks. Quick-cooking barley is the most processed type of barley and cooks in about 10 minutes (in boiling water or broth).