Mexican Barley

Ingredients:

1 box (or can) 14 1/2 oz Stewed tomatoes
1 tsp olive or coconut oil
1 clove garlic, minced
1 c barley
1 c water (divided)
1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
1 tsp ground cumin
2 tsp chili powder
1 can black beans
1 Tbsp finely chopped cilantro
1 Tbsp lime juice
Fresh ground black pepper and salt to taste

Directions:

1. (Optional) Put the tomatoes in food processor and puree.
2. Heat oil in large skillet over med heat. Add onion and garlic. Saute 5 min.
3. Stir in barley, tomatoes, 1 cup water, and seasonings. Simmer, uncovered until liquid has been absorbed; stir ofen
4. Continue to add water, about 1/2 c at a time, as needed. Total cook time should be about 40 minutes; barley should be tender, yet still firm (not mushy). Add beans with about 15 min left of cooking.
5. Stir in cilantro, lime juice, salt and pepper.