In a soup pot, add the oil and brown the ground beef, once cooked drain the meat

Add some more oil, onions, and mushrooms, and sauté for 5 minutes in the same pot. Add the beef back in and cook for 5 minutes more

Then add the water and beef bouillon cubes and bring to a boil. Boil for 2 minutes and add the barley. Stir and turn down the heat to a low simmer. Stir every few minutes, so the barley doesn't stick

Cook for 45 minutes or until the barley is tender. Season with salt and pepper