Thursday, I visited a family farm. I met the family working at the Grider Street Market. So last Thursday we went to visit the farm. It was very easy to find and I think we surprised the family that we came to stop by. On Friday I made Grider Market Harvest Soup 2011 made from leeks, carrots, celery, swiss chard,onions and parsley for the farm.

Grider Street Market Harvest Soup 2011

1-2 tablespoons of olive oil

4- 5 carrots- diced

4-5 celery stalks diced

1 sweet onion -diced

3-4 leeks white parts - cut into thin sliced

2 garlic cloves -diced

2 tsp. of dried thyme

small bunch of parsley cut into small pieces

2 chicken boneless skinless ( with all fat cut off) cut into small pieces

1 small bunch of Swiss chard-leaves only cut in pieces

1 cup of quick cooking medium barley

6 cups of chicken broth

salt and pepper to taste

Cut all vegetables and chicken up and set aside before starting.

In a large pot heat oil and toss in onions, leeks and garlic, cook until the onions are translucent.Add to celery, carrots and thyme, cook for about 6-10 minutes. Add Chicken - cook until for about 4 minutes. Add 6 cups of chicken broth and bring to a boil. Add the barley, cover , simmer and cook until the chicken and barley are done- about 10 minutes.Add swiss chard and cook until wilted. Serve.

Some tips- you do not have to use leeks, I had then some I added them. When I stored the soup over night the barley seem to take over the soup,you might need to add some more chicken stock.