1.5 lb ground beef

1 onion chopped

3 cloves garlic minced

5 ribs celery and leaves chopped

5 carrots sliced

2 cans whole peeled tomatoes

8 cups beef broth

1 cup barley

parsely and oregano to taste

 

1.  Combine broth, celery, carrots, tomatoes with juice, and parsley and oregano.  Heat to boiling.

2.  Meanwhile, brown ground beef, onion and garlic.  Add to broth.  Return to boiling.

3.  Add barley.  Return to boil.

4.  Reduce heat and simmer, covered for 60-80 minutes, until barley is soft and flavor is developed. 

5.  Use sm amt of instant potatoes (Less than 1/4 cup, added a little at a time) to thicken if desired just before serving.