Tomato barley soup

Ingredients 1 cup chopped onions 1 cup chopped celery 1 cup chopped carrots 2 teaspoons minced garlic 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 1/2 cups water 2 tomatoes, diced 1 (14.5 ounce) can peeled and diced tomatoes with juice 1 (10.75 ounce) can chicken broth 1/4 cup uncooked barley 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper Directions In a large saucepan over medium heat, combine the onions, celery, carrots, garlic and oil and saute for 5 to 10 minutes, or until all vegetables are almost tender.Then add the water, fresh tomatoes, canned tomatoes, chicken broth, barley and ground black pepper. Stir thoroughly and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 35 to 40 minutes, or until barley is tender.