1/2 onion, diced
2 ribs celery, diced
2 carrots, diced
any other vegetables desired, 1/2 cup each
2 tbsp oil or margarine
6 cups water or vegetable broth
¾ cup pearled barley, uncooked
1 can pinto or white beans,
1 cup tomato sauce
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp pepper
1/4 tsp celery salt (optional)
1 tsp basil
2 tsp oregano or Italian spice mix
1/2 tsp thyme
1 tsp onion powder (optional)
2 large bay leaves
In a large soup pot, sautee the onions, celery, carrots and any other
vegetables for 3-5 minutes. Add vegetable broth or water and all other
ingredients
and bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to medium low. Allow to simmer for
at least an hour, stirring occasionally, until barleyis soft and somewhat
fluffy.
Add more spices to taste and enjoy! If soup thinkens too much just add water
or broth.