Black Beans And Barley - cooking recipe

Ingredients

2 teaspoons canola oil
1 medium onion, chopped
1/2 red bell pepper, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
1 1/2 cups reduced-sodium chicken broth or 1 1/2 cups vegetable broth
3/4 cup quick-cooking barley
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano or 3 teaspoons fresh oregano, to taste
15 1/2 - 19 ounces canned black beans, rinsed,drained
1/2 cup chopped fresh tomato
salt and pepper
2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro or 2 tablespoons basil (optional)

Preparation

Heat oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat.
Add onion, bell pepper and garlic; cook, stirring frequently, until onion is barely tender, about 5 minutes.
Add cumin and cook for 30 seconds more.
Add broth, barley and oregano, increase heat and bring to a boil.
Reduce heat to low, cover and simmer until the barley is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed, about 10 minutes.
Gently stir in beans and tomatoes and heat through.
season with salt and pepper to taste.
Sprinkle with cilantro or basil (if using) just before serving.