Stone Soup

We studied the letter R in school last week & the book Stone Soup by Marcia Brown was assigned home reading that went with it.  The kids were intrigued with the idea of stone soup and asked if we could make our own.  My response? Why not?! :)  So we read through the book again to create a recipe, went through the pantry, and then headed to the store to gather the remaining ingredients.  It was a fun activity for all of us and cooked veggies have never been enjoyed more by my picky kidos! ;)  I thought I'd share our new recipe with you and let you enjoy some story and cooking time with your kids. :D

Stone Soup

Ingredients:
6c water
3 smooth, round stones
1 tsp salt
1/2 pepper
3 carrots (coined)
1 c cabbage (coarsely shredded)
1lb beef stew meat
3 medium potatoes (cubed)
3/4c pearl barley
1/2c milk
opt. 1 tsp beef bullion (not in story but fills out the flavor)

Instructions:
In a large iron pot bring water to a boil.  Add washed stones, salt, pepper, carrots, cabbage, beef,  potatoes and barley.  Add optional beef bullion if desired.  Cook until veggies and barley are tender.  Add milk just before serving.

I do have one suggestion.  I used red cabbage in our soup (pictured at the top) and it turned the broth an unappetizing greyish color.  I would highly recommend  using green cabbage!

Enjoy cooking with your kids & using some more of last seasons garden produce. :)  While you are at it, why don't you invite some friends or neighbors over and have a party like the soldiers and peasants did in the book.  Happy Garden Eating! :)