3 (10 oz) cans beef consomme, undiluted (make certain to use only beef consomme, not beef broth!) .
1-2 tbsp worcestershire sauce .
2 tbsps minced fresh garlic (can use more) .
1 (28 oz) can tomatoes (undrained) .
1 (10 oz) can tomato soup, undiluted .
crushed red pepper flakes (optional) .
1/2 tsp thyme .
1/2 c pearl barley .
2 lbs extra lean ground beef .
salt & pepper .
5-6 carrots, sliced into about 1-inch pieces .
1-2 bay leaf
Directions
Step #1 In a large pot, brown the meatballs first, brown the ground beef with onion & garlic; drain any fat (if you are making this soup with meatballs, then saute the onions & garlic after the meatballs).
Step #2 Add in all remaining ingredients except Parmesan cheese, & let simmer for a minumum of 3 hrs, (adjusting ingredients to suit taste).
Step #3 Ladle into serving bowls & sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese.