Chicken Barley Soup

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 broiler/fryer chicken (2 to 3 pounds), cut up

• 8 cups water

• 1-1/2 cups chopped carrots

• 1 cup chopped celery

• 1/2 cup medium pearl barley

• 1/2 cup chopped onion

• 1 teaspoon chicken bouillon granules

• 1 teaspoon salt, optional

• 1 bay leaf

• 1/2 teaspoon poultry seasoning

• 1/2 teaspoon pepper

      1/2 teaspoon rubbed sage

Directions

In a large stockpot, cook chicken in water until tender. Cool broth and skim off fat. Set chicken aside until cool enough to handle. Remove meat from bones; discard bones and cut meat into cubes. Return meat to pan along with remaining ingredients. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; cover and simmer for 1 hour or until vegetables and barley are tender. Discard bay leaf.Yield: 5 servings (about 1-1/2 quarts).