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

Brown ground beef, onion, 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. Makes 6-8 servings.