Does raw pearl barley need soaking?

Raw pearl barley does not require soaking before cooking, but soaking can help reduce cooking time and improve its digestibility. If you choose to soak it, aim for about 6-8 hours. However, if you skip soaking, simply rinse the barley and cook it in water or broth, adjusting the cooking time accordingly. Cooking pearl barley typically takes about 30-40 minutes, depending on the desired texture.