2/3 c. pearl barley
1 1/2 lb. ground beef
1 med. onion, chopped
1 clove garlic, minced
4 carrots, diced
3 ribs celery, diced
1 (28 oz.) can tomatoes
3 (10 1/2 oz.) cans beef consomme
2 c. water
1 (10 1/2 oz.) can tomato soup (optional)
1 bay leaf
1/4 c. minced parsley
Salt and pepper to taste

Brown ground beef, onion, and garlic in Dutch oven or heavy kettle until meat is no longer pink. Add barley and remaining ingredients. Cover and cook, simmering 1 1/2 to 2 hours. For slow cooker, cook on high 1 hour; then on low 5-6 hours.