1/3 c. barley
6 c. water
2 tsp. salt
1 1/2 c. chopped tomatoes
2 bay leaves
1/4 tsp. sage
1 tsp. oregano
1 tsp. black pepper
1 onion, sliced
2 carrots, sliced
1 rib celery, sliced
2-3 c. chopped zucchini

Bring salted water to boil in a large pot. Add barley, tomatoes, bay leaves and herbs and let simmer. Place a frying pan on medium heat and add oil. When oil is hot add onions, stir for 1-2 minutes, add carrots, celery and stir a few more minutes. Add zucchini and stir again. Reduce heat, add a bit of water and simmer for 10-15 minutes until liquid is almost gone.

When barley has been simmering about 30 minutes, add vegetables and simmer together for 10-15 minutes until vegetables are tender. Adjust seasonings to taste. If it gets too thick, I add tomato or V-8 juice. Serves 6-8.