Leek and Barley Soup Recipe - Cookitsimply.com

Ingredients

• 4 leeks (sliced)
• 2 oz pearl barley
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 small onion (chopped)
• 2 carrots (sliced)
• 14 oz can tomatoes
• 1 pint vegetable stock or water
• 1/2 teaspoon dried mixed herbs
• 1 bay leaf
• salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 7 1/2 oz can butter beans (drained)
• 4 round slices French bread
• 1 1/2 oz butter (for frying)
• 1 clove garlic (cut in half (optional))
• 4 oz Cheddar cheese (grated)