Do Job's Tears Have Gluten? A Comprehensive Guide

Job's tears, also known as coix seed, is a nutritious and versatile grain that is gaining popularity in Western diets. Despite being sometimes misleadingly called 'Chinese pearl barley,' this ancient Asian cereal is, in fact, naturally gluten-free and a safe alternative for those with celiac disease or gluten intolerance.

Quick Summary

This guide clarifies that Job's tears are a gluten-free grain, debunking the common misconception that it is related to barley. Learn about its nutritional profile, health benefits, and how to use it safely, especially for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.

Key Points

• Naturally Gluten-Free: Job's tears are inherently gluten-free, suitable for people with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.

• Not Related to Barley: Despite being called 'Chinese pearl barley,' it is botanically unrelated to true barley, which contains gluten.

• Rich in Nutrients: This ancient grain is high in protein, fiber, and various minerals, offering significant health benefits.

• Versatile Ingredient: It can be used as a gluten-free substitute for barley in soups, stews, porridges, and salads.

• Check for Cross-Contamination: For celiac disease, always ensure products are certified gluten-free due to potential cross-contamination during processing.

• Caution for Pregnancy: Pregnant and nursing women are advised to avoid or limit consumption due to potential risks, so a doctor's consultation is recommended.

What are Job's Tears?

Scientifically known as Coix lacryma-jobi, Job's tears is a type of grass native to Southeast Asia. The name comes from the distinctive tear-like shape of its seeds. It has been a staple in Asian cuisine and traditional medicine for centuries, used in everything from savory soups and porridges to sweet desserts and beverages. The grains are available in both hulled and unhulled forms, with the hulled white version being the most common for culinary use. In its wild form, the seeds have a hard, bony outer shell and are often used for making beads and other decorative items.

The Gluten-Free Misconception

One of the most significant points of confusion surrounding Job's tears is its frequent mislabeling as "Chinese barley" or "adlay barley". This has led many people, especially those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, to mistakenly assume it contains gluten and should be avoided.

It is crucial to understand that Job's tears and barley, despite their similar appearance when hulled, are not botanically related. Barley belongs to the Hordeum genus and contains gluten, while Job's tears are part of the Coix genus and are naturally gluten-free. For those with strict gluten-free dietary needs, always check product labels for a gluten-free certification to ensure there has been no cross-contamination during processing.

Nutritional and Health Benefits

Job's tears are not just a gluten-free alternative; they are also packed with nutritional value.

Nutritional highlights:

• High in Protein: Contains a significant amount of protein, making it a valuable addition to a plant-based diet.
• Rich in Fiber: The high fiber content aids digestion and can help lower cholesterol.
• Vitamins and Minerals: Provides a good source of B vitamins, calcium, and iron.
• Antioxidants: Rich in phytochemicals that have antioxidant effects and can help protect the body's cells.

Health benefits associated with Job's tears include:

• Reducing inflammation and supporting the immune system.
• Potential anti-tumor and cancer-preventive properties, based on some animal and test-tube studies.
• Support for skin health, traditionally used to treat acne and improve complexion.
• Diuretic properties, which help with water retention and can support kidney function.

Comparison: Job's Tears vs. Barley

To help clarify the differences, here is a comparison of Job's tears and barley:

Feature	Job's Tears (Coix lacryma-jobi)	Barley (Hordeum vulgare)
Gluten Status	Gluten-Free	Contains Gluten
Botanical Family	Grass family (Poaceae), Tribe Maydae	Grass family (Poaceae), Tribe Triticeae
Appearance	Tear-drop shaped, often white when hulled	Oval-shaped, typically pearl or hulled
Texture when Cooked	Chewy, with a tender yet firm consistency	Soft and plump, with a tender chew
Flavor Profile	Mildly sweet and earthy	Nutty and slightly sweet
Culinary Uses	Soups, porridges, teas, and as a rice substitute	Soups, stews, cereals, and baked goods

Safe Consumption and Risks

While generally safe for most people, some precautions should be taken when consuming Job's tears.

• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Traditional Chinese medicine advises pregnant and nursing women to avoid or limit consumption, as some animal studies have shown potential risks of uterine contractions and embryo toxicity. Always consult a doctor before use.
• Diabetes and Low Blood Pressure: Job's tears can lower blood sugar and blood pressure. Individuals on medication for these conditions should monitor their levels closely and consult a healthcare professional.
• Cross-Contamination: For those with celiac disease, the risk of cross-contamination in processing facilities is a concern. Always choose products explicitly labeled as gluten-free to ensure safety.
• Allergies: Though not common, allergic reactions are possible. It is best to start with a small amount and observe your body's reaction.

How to Prepare and Use Job's Tears

Job's tears are a versatile and delicious grain that can be prepared in many ways. For best results, it is recommended to soak the grains before cooking to reduce cooking time and improve digestibility.

Basic Cooking Method:

1. Rinse one cup of hulled Job's tears under cold water.
2. Soak in water for at least an hour, or preferably overnight.
3. Drain and place in a pot with about 3 cups of fresh water.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 45-55 minutes, or until tender and chewy.
5. Season and use as a rice substitute, in salads, or added to soups.

Culinary Uses:

• Hearty Soups: Use Job's tears as a thickener in soups, similar to how barley would be used.
• Grain Bowls: Combine cooked Job's tears with roasted vegetables, a protein source, and a flavorful dressing for a nutritious meal.
• Asian Desserts: In some cuisines, it is cooked with coconut milk and sugar to create a sweet, pudding-like dessert.
• Tea: Roasted and ground Job's tears can be brewed into a tea known as yulmu-cha in Korea.

Conclusion

Job's tears are a valuable and naturally gluten-free grain that offers a wide array of nutritional and health benefits. It is a safe and delicious option for individuals following a gluten-free diet, and its culinary versatility makes it a great addition to a balanced and healthy lifestyle. The key is to be aware of the misleading "Chinese pearl barley" label and always verify the gluten-free status to prevent cross-contamination. By understanding the true nature of this ancient grain, consumers can confidently incorporate it into their diet.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the scientific name for Job's tears? A: The scientific name for Job's tears is Coix lacryma-jobi. It is also known by other names such as coix seed, adlay, and hato mugi.

Q: How can I be sure my Job's tears are gluten-free? A: Always check the product packaging for an official gluten-free certification. This is especially important for those with celiac disease to avoid potential cross-contamination.

Q: Can Job's tears be used as a substitute for barley? A: Yes, Job's tears make an excellent gluten-free substitute for barley in many recipes, particularly in soups and stews, due to their similar texture.

Q: What are the main health benefits of Job's tears? A: Key health benefits include high protein and fiber content, antioxidant properties, and potential anti-inflammatory effects. It has also been studied for its effects on cholesterol and skin health.

Q: Is Job's tears safe for pregnant women? A: Due to potential abortifacient effects shown in some animal studies, pregnant women are advised to avoid or limit consumption. It's crucial to consult a doctor before use.

Q: How does Job's tears compare to rice? A: While both are grains, Job's tears have a higher protein and fiber content than white rice. They have a chewier texture and an earthy flavor, offering a different profile for dishes.

Q: Where can I find Job's tears? A: Job's tears can be found in many Asian supermarkets, health food stores, and online retailers. Look for it labeled as coix seed or hato mugi.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Job's tears?

Job's tears (Coix lacryma-jobi) is an ancient grain from the grass family, native to Southeast Asia, known for its tear-drop shaped seeds. It is used both culinarily and in traditional medicine.

Why is it sometimes called 'Chinese barley'?

It is sometimes called 'Chinese pearl barley' due to its superficial resemblance to barley once hulled, but they are from different plant species and are not related.

Can people with celiac disease eat Job's tears?

Yes, people with celiac disease can eat Job's tears, as it is naturally gluten-free. However, it is important to purchase certified gluten-free products to avoid cross-contamination.

How do you cook Job's tears?

To cook, rinse and soak the grains for at least one hour. Then, simmer them in water for about 45-55 minutes until tender and chewy. They can be used similarly to rice or barley.

What does Job's tears taste like?

Job's tears have a mild, sweet, and earthy flavor, with a texture that is tender yet chewy, similar to a mix between rice and hominy.

Are there any side effects of Job's tears?

Job's tears are generally safe, but pregnant and nursing women should avoid them. Individuals on diabetes or blood pressure medication should also consult a doctor, as it can affect blood sugar and pressure levels.

What is the difference in texture between Job's tears and barley?

While both grains become soft and chewy when cooked, Job's tears tend to hold their shape better and have a firmer, more substantial bite compared to the softer, plumper texture of cooked barley.