Heat a large heavy pot or dutch oven on medium heat. Add oil and beef, season with a little salt and brown meat a few minutes.

When meat is browned, add carrots, onion, celery and garlic to the pot and give it a good stir.

Add water, salt and bay leaves and bring to a boil.

When boiling, reduce heat to low and cover. Simmer covered over low heat until the meat is soft, about 1 1/2 - 2 hours.

Add the barley, adjust the salt if needed and add fresh ground pepper.

Simmer an additional 30-35, remove bay leaves and serve.

Makes 7 1/2 cups.