Beef Barley Soup

Ingredients

• 4 tablespoons salted butter
• 1-2 pounds ground beef
• OPTIONAL: 1 pound mushrooms, diced finely
• 1 yellow onion, diced
• 12 ounces carrots, cut into 1/4 inch pieces
• 6 cups broth; veggie, garlic, or mushroom base
• 3/4-1 cup barley, rinsed
• 2 teaspoons dried thyme
• 1 1/2 teaspoons seasoned salt
• 2 tablespoons worcestershire sauce
• OPTIONAL: 1/2 - 1 cup heavy cream