Bring the milk to the boil, stir in the barley groats, raisins, nuts and sugar and simmer over a low flame for about 15 minutes. Or let it simmer for 5 minutes and then let it soak in a warm place. Stir in the butter.
Serve hot with compote or cold with applesauce or compote. Serve with cinnamon sugar. It also tastes delicious hot with brown sugar and a dollop of butter.