Beef Barley Soup With Thyme And Garlic Recipe

• 3 Tbsp. vegetable oil
• 1 1/2 lb boneless, cubed stew meat
• 1 Tbsp. chopped garlic
• 1 tsp salt Freshly grnd pepper, to taste
• 3 x to 4 c. water, divided
• 3 x to 4 (10 1/2-ounce.) cans condensed beef broth
• 4 x ribs celery, chopped
• 1/2 c. chopped mushrooms, optional
• 6 x carrots, chopped
• 1 c. barley
• 2 tsp dry parsley, or possibly 1/2 c. fresh parsley
• 2 tsp thyme
• 1 x (14 1/2-ounce.) can minced, tomatoes (use Italian seasoned tomatoes for more flavor)

Directions