Southwestern Barley Bake

 
1 lb ground beef, turkey or chicken
1 medium onion, diced
15 oz tomato sauce
1 C water
1/2 C barley
1/4 C olives, sliced (optional)
1/2 tsp sugar
1 tsp chili powder
1 C Cheddar cheese, shredded

Garnishes:
● Avocado slices
● Sliced olives
● Chopped tomatoes

In a fry pan, sauté ground beef, turkey or chicken with onion until onion is soft. Drain. Add tomato sauce, water, barley, olives, sugar and chili powder. Pour into a greased 7”x11” baking pan. Cover tightly with foil. Bake at 350° for 50 to 55 minutes, or until barley is tender. Sprinkle with cheese. Cover and let stand for 2 to 3 minutes, or until cheese is melted. Sprinkle with garnishes, if desired.
don’t have time to make this bread when your bananas are overripe, peel and freeze them for a later date. Before using, defrost and discard most of the accumulated banana juices.