Leftover Stew Mix

When we have leftover bits of beef, gravy, or vegetables (with cooking liquid) I put them in a large container in the freezer and add to it as the leftovers appear. Our container is a washed 4 lb yogurt container from Costco, but use what you have. When 2 containers are full, I thaw out the contents put it in the slow cooker with 2 cups of tomato sauce and enough water to make it soupy and cook it all day. The last 20-25 minutes, I add the contents of this mix for a wholesome barley beef stew.

2 Tablespoons dried mince onion

1 teaspoon garlic salt

1 teaspoon dried parsley

1 teaspoon black pepper

2 bay leaves

1 cup pearl barley

(Note: pull out the bay leaves and put them in the slow cooker at the beginning. Wait to add the rest until the end or the barley will absorb all the liquid and flavor and make a mess of your stew.)