1: Place a large sauce pot over medium heat and add the olive oil and onions.
2: Saute the onions for 2-3 minutes.
3: Stir in the carrots, celery, and garlic. Cook for another 3-5 minutes.
4: Cut the beef into small 1/2 inch chunks.
5: Push the veggies to the side of the pot and add the meat. Brown for 5 minutes, stirring once or twice.
6: Add in the broth, tomatoes, barley, herbs, crushed red pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Stir well.
7: Cover the pot and bring to a boil.
8: Lower the heat if needed and simmer until the barley is cooked and the beef is tender, stirring occasionally, about 30 minutes.
9: Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.
