Question: how much water for 1 2 cup barley?
Answer: Bring 1 cup pearl barley and 2 1/2 cups water (or broth) to a boil. Reduce heat to a simmer; cook, covered, until tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed, 40 to 50 minutes. Let stand for 5 minutes. Makes 3 to 3 1/2 cups.