Tomato, Basil and Barley Soup

Ingredients:

• 2 tins diced Tomatoes
• 1 small Red Onion, diced
• 2 small carrots, diced
• 1 handful Fresh Basil
• 2 cloves of Garlic
• 2 cloves of Star Anise
• 2 cups Vegetable Stock
• 2 cups Water
• 1/2 cup Pearl Barley
• 100g Fresh Parmesan
• 2 Tbsp. Olive Oil
• Salt and Pepper

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot on medium heat. Add diced onion, carrots, basil and garlic and cook until onions begin to soften. Soak barley in a separate pot of cold water for 10 minutes and set aside.
2. Add tomatoes, vegetable stock, water and star anise to the pot and bring to boil, stirring occasionally.
3. Drain barley and add to the soup mix. Reduce heat and simmer for about 30-40 minutes, add salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and serve while hot.

Garnish with basil and Parmesan cheese