Step 1

In a large pot over medium-high heat, heat the oil. Saute the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery until the vegetables are tender, for about five minutes.

Step 2

Add broth (for broth I used six cups of water and three bullion cubes), barley, cans of beans, can of diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and spices, and let it boil for 30 minutes until the barley is nice and soft.