Turned out awesome - used this recipe: Short Rib and Barley Stew and it came out really well but the flavorful chuck was a bit overpowering - tender as sin but a little strong tasting.
I will make the next batch with pulled chicken - the Umami was at a nice level but the beef overpowered it a little bit. The barley is so sweet that I want a lighter protein to complement it.
Using Marmite in the soup was a touch of genius - I will be trying it out in my spaghetti sauce next batch.