Homemade Lemon Barley Water vs Classic American Lemonade

Homemade Lemon Barley Water and Classic American Lemonade both rely on lemon for a sweet-tart balance, but they reach it in very different ways. In the barley water, pearl barley is simmered until it releases its starches into a gentle, slightly cloudy base, and lemon zest is steeped in it so its fragrant oils infuse before the fresh juice is stirred in. The lemonade involves no grain at all: a simple syrup is combined with freshly squeezed, strained juice and very cold water for a bright, sharply tangy drink. One is mellow and aromatic, the other crisp and direct.