Hungarian Goulash with Pearl Barley

This is a great way to use up your zucchini… It's great the first day, and even better the second. I happen to like it served with Italian cheese blend on top.

Serves about 12-14 people

2 Tbsp olive oil
1 Tbsp butter
1 large sweet onion, diced
3 Tbsp garlic, minced
2 pkgs quartered mushrooms
2 cans (6 oz ea) tomato paste
2 cans (12 oz ea) diced tomatoes
4 cups water
2 Tbsp dried oregano
1 Tbsp dried thyme
1 lb beef stew meat, chopped into bite-sized pieces
½ lb ground turkey, browned
½ lb ground pork, browned
2 cups uncooked pearl barley
3 cups chopped zucchini
Salt and pepper to taste

Heat olive oil and butter in a large, thick-bottomed stockpot.

Sauté onions until glassy, then add garlic and mushrooms.

Cook until mushrooms are tender

Add tomato paste, let sauté, and stir completely into mix.

Add canned tomatoes and seasonings.

Add the water and meat.

Stir to combine, and add the pearl barley.

Stir again, and cover for about 15 minutes on low.

Add zucchini, stir, and cover for another 5-7 minutes.

Serve.