Black Bean and Barley Soup

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat and add chopped garlic. After a few minutes, the garlic will become very aromatic and that is when I added the beans, corn, and tomatoes. Stir until well mixed. Then let this set on medium heat for about 5 minutes. Then turn down to low heat until barley is done cooking. While that is cooking on medium, begin boiling vegetable broth in a saucepan. Once it begins to boil, add the barley. Then cover and lower heat to a simmer, let cook for ten minutes. One the barley is finished, pour into the bean mixture. Stir thoroughly, and there you have it folks! A black bean barley soup. We added some cheddar cheese to the top, and my husband added some oyster crackers, just to finish off the bag. Enjoy :)