Highland Barley from Qushui

Highland Barley from Qushui

　　【Highland Barley】Highland barley belongs to the cereal genus Hordeum of the grass family. Since its grains have no husk, it is also called naked barley or hulless barley. Highland barley is the most important staple crop for the Tibetan people, with a long cultivation history and extensive planting area, accounting for 56%–60% of the sown area of grain crops in Tibet, and even over 80% in some areas. The grains are highly nutritious, containing about 15% protein. When roasted and ground into tsampa (roasted barley flour), it becomes a beloved and convenient staple food for the Tibetan people. Highland barley is also used to make chang, their traditional and favorite alcoholic beverage. Its straw is soft in texture, making it excellent fodder for livestock. (Lhasa)