beef & barley soup is fine fare... I like adding a few chopped up mushrooms near the end for the added flavor. I've been know to take leftover mushroom gravy and use that as the base for the barley soup. waste not, want not...

and it doesn't hurt if it tastes good, too

most biscuits seem too dry and heavy for me... I like sausage gravy with toast or over hash browns (pan fried shredded potatoes) or home fries (another style of pan fried potatoes)... served with fried or poached eggs.   

potato soup is wonderful... add leeks and it gets even better. Use starchy or all purpose potatoes to get that creamy texture. Waxy potatoes are better for salads or baked dishes where they hold their shape.