Beef and Barley Stew from Living Essentials

1 (12oz) can beef chunks 7 cups water ¾ cup dried carrots 3 TBS dried minced onion 3 TBS dried celery 2 TBS dried red or green pepper 2 TBS beef bouillon 2 TBS dried minced parsley ½ tsp basil 1/8 tsp pepper 1 bay leaf ¾ cup pearled barley Combine all ingredients except barley in large pot and bring to a boil. Add barley and simmer, covered, for 45-55 minutes until barley is tender. Remove bay leaf before serving. Serves 4-6.