Mike's Beef Barley Soup

MIKE’S BEEF BARLEY SOUP

INGREDIENTS:

2 POUNDS BEEF CUBES -- USE SIRLOIN FOR BEST TASTE
2 TBS. BUTTER
1/2 CUP BARLEY
2 MEDIUM ONIONS -- SLICED
2 TBS. PARSLEY CHOPPED
2 TSP. SALT
1/4 TSP. PEPPER
1 BAY LEAF
6 CUPS OF STOCK -- CAN USE SWANSONS BEEF OR CHICKEN
1 LARGE CAN (28 OZ.) CAN TOMATOES
1 1/2 CUPS CELERY SLICED
1 1/2 CUPS CARROTS SLICED
1/2 GREEN PEPPER -- DICED
1/4 TSP. THYME


BROWN THE MEAT WELL IN THE BUTTER IN A DUTCH OVEN OR HEAVY PAN. ADD THE REST OF THE INGREDIENTS AND SIMMER FOR 1 1/2 TO 2 HOURS.

Note: Mike also recommends cubed lamb in place of beef.