Roasted Barley Tea

Why people make this tea

Nourilo here. The other day my sister and brother-in-law took me to a little Beijing-style spot for crispy duck and wonton chicken soup, and the waiter brought over a big pot of barley tea — wonderfully fragrant, and just the thing in this summer heat. We three ate until we were full, and the barley tea helped settle things so nobody felt over-stuffed. I liked it so much I decided to buy some barley, roast it at home, and keep it on hand to brew whenever I like. Best of all, it has no caffeine, tannins or other stimulants, so it is gentle even for night owls on a day off.