Hearty Barley-Bean Soup

 Source: Vegan Soups and Hearty Stews for All Seasons

2 TB oil

1 cup chopped onion

2-3 cloves garlic, minced

2 cups water

4 cups vegetable broth

3/4 cup uncooked pearl barley

2 celery stalks, diced

2 carrots, peeled & diced

15 oz. can diced tomatoes

15 oz. can kidney beans, drained & rinsed

1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

1 tsp dill weed

1 tsp salt plus extra to taste

1/2 tsp pepper plus extra to taste

1. Heat oil in soup pot. Add onion & garlic and saute until fragrant.  Add water, broth, barley, celery, carrots, tomatoes, dill, salt & pepper.  Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover & simmer 45 minutes.

2.  Add the beans & parsley and simmer for another 15 minutes or until barley is tender.