Recipe: Barley, Beef and Broccoli Soup

BARLEY, BEEF AND BROCCOLI SOUP

1/2 cup barley
9 cups water
1/2 lb ground beef
1/2 medium onion
1 bunch of broccoli
2 large tomatoes
2 stalks of celery
1 medium zucchini
1 (10 oz.) can sliced mushrooms
7 to 9 beef bouillon cubes
garlic powder, chili powder, salt, and pepper (to taste)
Grated cheddar cheese (optional, for serving)

In a large pot, combine the barley and 9 cups water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.

In the meantime, chop vegetables into bite-sized pieces.

In another pan, brown the beef and drain fat.

Add all ingredients (except the cheddar cheese) to the barley bring to a boil again and then continue to simmer until the barley is tender, approximately 1 hour. If the soup becomes too thick, add water as needed.

Sprinkle each serving with cheddar cheese.

Makes 6-8 servings
Source: Alberta Barley Commission