Beef Barley Soup In A Jar

1 1 pint jar
3/4 cup medium pearl barley; separated
1/2 cup dried lentils
2 teaspoon dried parsley flakes
1/4 cup dried minced onions
1/4 cup instant beef bouillon
2 teaspoon dried celery flakes
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme leaves
2 bay leaves
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon dried minced garlic

Layer soup kit ingredients in jar in order listed, using half of barley
first and then remaining barley at the top. Close jar securely with lid.

Attach to jar:

Beef Barley Soup

2 lb. boneless beef chuck, cut in 1/2- to 3/4-inch pieces or 2 lb. lean hamburger
1 T. vegetable oil
Contents of gift jar
10 C. water

Heat oil in Dutch oven over medium heat and brown the meat. Pour off drippings. Add the contents of soup kit jar and water to Dutch oven; bring to a boil. Reduce heat; cover tightly and simmer 1 1/2 to 1 3/4 hours or until beef is fork tender.
Discard bay leaves. Yields 8 servings