Here's another fave...Rec: Mushroom and Barley Soup
Have been making this for years...don't recall where the recipe originated.
Mushroom and Barley Soup
2 tbsp butter
1 small onion or 2 leeks, chopped
1 clove garlic, minced
1 carrot, chopped
1 celery rib, chopped
1/2 bell pepper, chopped (optional)
3/4 lb. fresh mushrooms, sliced or coarsely chopped
5-6 cups beef broth (sometimes I use 1/2 chicken broth, 1/2 beef broth or all chicken)
1/3 cup uncooked barley
3 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
1/2 tsp dried thyme leaves
bay leaf
salt and freshly ground pepper to taste
juice of 1/2 lemon (optional)
In large saucepan or small stockpot melt butter, add onion, garlic, carrot, celery, bell pepper (if using), saute 2 minutes. Add mushrooms, saute 1 to 2 minutes. Add remaining ingredients except lemon juice. Bring to a boil, reduce heat and simmer about 30 minutes until barley is tender. Add lemon juice, if desired.
Pat's note: Can also add any leftover bits of chopped chicken, turkey or roast beef, if desired.