Beth care to share the beef and barley recipe???
I'd be glad to. Just talked to hubby about it. This is how he makes it. You can add more or less of anything.. it's very free-form.
Barry's Beef and Barley Soup
2 Tbsp. oil
1.5 lbs. beef stew meat
1 medium onion, chopped
3 large carrots, sliced
3 large ribs celery, sliced
1 cup mushrooms, sliced
1 cup green beans, cut 1" long
2 quarts Swanson Beef Broth
1 cup barley
1/4 cup ketchup
1/4 head green cabbage, cut into 1" cubes
Brown the meat in the oil in a large stockpot or dutch oven over medium-high heat. Lower heat to medium, throw the onions and celery in with the meat, cook and stir about 5 min., until softened. Add all remaining ingredients, except cabbage. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for at least 1 hour. We usually cook it about 2 hours.. the meat gets so tender! Add the cabbage during the last 15 min. Serve.