1. Heat olive oil(2 tbsp) over medium heat. Add the diced sweet potato(1) and saute for 5 minutes.
2. Add the minced garlic(4 cloves) and diced onion(1) and saute for an additional 3 minutes.
3. Add the peeled and diced carrots(3), diced celery stalks(3), cut green beans(1 cup), barley(1/3 cup), canned tomatoes(15 oz), vegetable brother(4 cups), water(2 cups), basil(1.5 tsp), and thyme(1 tsp) and bring to a boil.
4. Reduce to a simmer and let cook for 45 minutes to one hour, until the barley is soft and ready to eat.