Beef, Barley and Mushroom Stew - Olga's Flavor Factory

Ingredients

• 1 lb beef, chopped into 1 inch pieces (I use chuck)
• 1 Tablespoon butter or oil
• 1 onion, minced
• 3-4 carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2-3 celery stalks, sliced
• 2-3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 dry bay leaf
• 2-3 potatoes, peeled and chopped
• 2 medium tomatoes, peeled, seeded and chopped, optional
• 1/3 cup pearl barley
• 8-10 cups broth (beef, chicken or vegetable)
• 6-8 oz fresh mushrooms, sliced
• salt, ground black pepper
• 1-2 Tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped