I had a request for a beef and barley soup recipe, so here is my favorite.

1 lb. beef stew meat, cut into 1/2″ cubes
1 c. finely chopped onion
2 garlic gloves, minced
1 (14 1/2 oz). can diced tomatoes
1 c. chopped celery
1 c. sliced carrots
1 pkg sliced mushrooms
1 c. pearl barley
1 pkg fresh spinach
1 pkg green beans
1 can beef broth
1 can vegetable broth
1 c. water
1 c. red wine

Add beef and cook until brown, stirring occasionally, about 8 minutes. Add onion and garlic and sauté until onion is tender, about 5 minutes. Stir in tomatoes with juices and all remaining ingredients. Cover and simmer until meat is tender, about 1 hour 10 minutes.

• Soups and Stews