Rinse and pick over the split peas and lentils, removing any rocks (it happens!). Put the split peas, lentils, barley, onion, and 6 cups of water in a large pot and boil until legumes are tender, about 30 minutes. Meanwhile, in a skillet, brown and drain ground beef. Add brown gravy mix to the ground beef and stir until meat is coated. Add beef, carrots, red potatoes, and 4 more cups water to the legumes. Simmer until vegetables are tender and stew has thickened, another 30 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Makes fantastic leftovers.
Recipe by Lulu the Baker at https://luluthebaker.com/recipe-redux-halloween-stew/