Sausage and Barley Soup

This was a great weekday dinner, so quick to make. My family was thrilled with it. I couldn't find the stir fry mix so I sauteed a red, green, and yellow pepper with an onion and garlic then blended them to make a puree. I also blended the tomatoes because my kids aren't thrilled about eating them. It made a nice smooth soup for the sausage and barley. I added pepper a little salt and some tobasco to cut down on the sweetness of the peppers. It was delicious. I also doubled the recipe and with 6 of us there is nothing left.

An easy and versatile recipe. I used chicken broth instead of water; added 1/2-cup additional water; and, added two garlic cloves.

Very good! However, the directions regarding pureeing the peppers wasn't clear...almost like they left out a step. I defrosted the peppers and then sauteed them so they were a little roasty, then pureed them. Using a stick blender also makes this step easier.

tons of flavor and so simple! and I even forgot the barley