Job's tears (Coix lacryma-jobi) is a versatile and nutritious grain that is native to Southeast Asia. This grain-bearing plant is also known by several other names, such as adlay, adlai, Chinese pearl barley, and hato mugi. In this article, we will explore the various names of Job's tears, its history, and its many uses.
Various Names of Job's Tears
Job's tears is a plant with a long history of use in traditional medicine and cuisine, and it has been given many names throughout the years. Some of the common names for Job's tears include:
1. Adlay: This name is used in many parts of Asia, including China, Japan, and Korea. Adlay is often used to make porridge, desserts, and other dishes.
2. Adlai: In the Philippines, Job's tears is known as adlai. It is a staple food in some parts of the country, and it is often used to make rice dishes or porridge.
3. Chinese pearl barley: Job's tears is sometimes referred to as Chinese pearl barley because of its small, round shape and its resemblance to barley.
4. Hato mugi: This is the Japanese name for Job's tears, which translates to "dove wheat". In Japan, hato mugi is used to make tea and as an ingredient in traditional sweets.
History of Job's Tears
Job's tears have been cultivated for thousands of years, and they have a long history of use in traditional medicine and cuisine. The plant is native to Southeast Asia, but it has been cultivated in other parts of the world, including China, Japan, India, and Africa. The earliest records of Job's tears use can be traced back to ancient China, where it was believed to have medicinal properties and was used to treat a variety of ailments.
In traditional Chinese medicine, Job's tears was used to improve digestion, reduce inflammation, and promote overall health and well-being. The seeds were often ground into a powder and mixed with water or other ingredients to make a medicinal paste or decoction.
Job's tears also played a role in religious and spiritual practices in some cultures. The seeds were sometimes used to make prayer beads, and they were believed to have protective properties.
Job's Tears Uses
1. Culinary Uses: Job's tears is a versatile grain that can be used in a variety of dishes. It can be cooked and eaten like other grains, such as rice or barley. Job's tears can also be ground into flour and used to make bread, cakes, and other baked goods. In many Asian countries, Job's tears is often used to make porridge or sweet desserts.
2. Medicinal Uses: Job's tears has been used for medicinal purposes for centuries. In traditional Chinese medicine, Job's tears was used to treat digestive problems, arthritis, and other ailments. The seeds were believed to have anti-inflammatory and diuretic properties, and they were often used to promote overall health and well-being.
3. Ornamental Uses: Job's tears has been used for ornamental purposes for centuries. The seeds have a unique tear-drop shape and a smooth, polished surface, which makes them ideal for use in jewelry and other decorative items. In some cultures, Job's tears prayer beads are used for religious and spiritual purposes.
Job's tears, also known as adlay or Chinese pearl barley, is a versatile gluten-free grain that can be used in a variety of recipes. This grain is rich in protein, fiber, and several essential vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious addition to any meal. In this article, we'll share some delicious and easy-to-make gluten-free recipes using Job's tears.
1. Job's Tears Porridge
Ingredients:
· 1 cup Job's tears
· 3 cups water
· 1/4 teaspoon salt
· 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (optional)
· 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional)
· 1/4 cup dried fruit (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse Job's tears in cold water and drain.
2. In a medium saucepan, bring Job's tears, water, and salt to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for about 30 minutes or until the grains are soft and tender.
3. Add honey or maple syrup and stir to combine. Top with chopped nuts and dried fruit, if desired.
Variations:
· Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for extra flavor.
· Substitute the water with almond milk or coconut milk for a creamier texture.
· Top with fresh fruit, such as sliced bananas or berries, instead of dried fruit and nuts.
2. Job's Tears Salad
Ingredients:
· 1 cup Job's tears, cooked and cooled
· 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
· 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
· 1/4 cup chopped red onion
· 1/4 cup chopped cucumber
· 1/4 cup chopped bell pepper
· 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
· 1/4 cup olive oil
· 2 tablespoons lemon juice
· 1 garlic clove, minced
· Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked Job's tears, chickpeas, parsley, red onion, cucumber, bell pepper, and feta cheese.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour dressing over salad and toss to combine. Serve chilled.
Variations:
· Add diced avocado for extra creaminess.
· Substitute the feta cheese with crumbled goat cheese or shredded Parmesan.
· Add a handful of chopped cherry tomatoes for extra color and flavor.
3. Job's Tears Stir-Fry
Ingredients:
· 1 cup Job's tears, cooked and cooled
· 1 cup mixed vegetables (such as bell pepper, carrot, broccoli, and snow peas)
· 1 garlic clove, minced
· 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari
· 1 tablespoon honey
· 1 tablespoon sesame oil
· 1 tablespoon cornstarch
· 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
· Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, cornstarch, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Set aside.
2. Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add mixed vegetables and garlic and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes or until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
3. Add cooked Job's tears to the skillet and stir to combine.
4. Pour sauce over the stir-fry and stir to coat. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes or until the sauce thickens and the vegetables are coated.
Variations:
· Substitute the mixed vegetables with your favorite vegetables, such as zucchini, mushrooms, or green beans.
· Add sliced cooked chicken, beef,or tofu for extra protein.
· Top with chopped peanuts or sesame seeds for extra crunch.
4. Job's Tears and Vegetable Soup
Ingredients:
· 1 cup Job's tears, rinsed and drained
· 1 cup mixed vegetables (such as carrot, celery, onion, and kale)
· 1 garlic clove, minced
· 4 cups vegetable broth
· 1 tablespoon olive oil
· Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add mixed vegetables and garlic and sauté for 2-3 minutes or until the vegetables are slightly tender.
2. Add Job's tears and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 30-40 minutes or until the Job's tears are tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
3. Season with salt and pepper, to taste. Serve hot.
Variations:
· Add cooked chicken or tofu for extra protein.
· Substitute the vegetable broth with chicken or beef broth for extra flavor.
· Top with a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream for extra creaminess.
5. Job's Tears Breakfast Bowl
Ingredients:
· 1 cup Job's tears, cooked and cooled
· 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
· 1/2 cup fresh fruit (such as sliced banana, berries, or mango)
· 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
· 1 tablespoon chia seeds
· 1 tablespoon chopped nuts (such as almonds or walnuts)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine cooked Job's tears, Greek yogurt, fresh fruit, honey or maple syrup, and chia seeds.
2. Top with chopped nuts. Serve immediately.
Variations:
· Add a splash of vanilla extract or almond extract for extra flavor.
· Substitute the fresh fruit with dried fruit, such as raisins or apricots.
· Add a drizzle of nut butter or chocolate sauce for extra decadence.
In conclusion, Job's tears is a nutritious and versatile gluten-free grain that can be used in a variety of recipes. These recipes are just a few examples of the many delicious and creative ways you can use this grain in your cooking. Experiment with different flavors and ingredients to find your favorite Job's tears recipes.
