MINGA'S FRIENDSHIP BEAN SOUP

MINGA'S FRIENDSHIP BEAN SOUP image

Number Of Ingredients 28

12-16 of the following in equal parts (1/4 cup each => 3-4 cups of mix)
Small lima beans
Navy beans
Pinto beans
Green lentils
Red lentils
Black beans
Black eye peas
Split green peas
Split yellow peas
Rice
Barley
Butter beans
Garbanzos
Small red beans
Kidney beans
Great Northern beans
Anasazi beans
1/2 lb ham
1 large onion
1 20oz can of tomatoes
1 pod red pepper or 1 Tbs chili powder
juice of 1 lemon
salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup sliced celery (optional)
1/2 cup sliced carrots (optional)
1 cup cubed potato (optional)
leftover beef, ham, or turkey (optional)

Steps:

Sort out any misshapen or discolored beans and wash thoroughly. Prepare beans for cooking via one of the following methods: 1. Place in a large container, cover with water and add 1 Tbs salt. Soak overnight. In the morning, drain. 2. Bring beans to a boil for 2 min in 4 cups water per cup of bean mix. Turn off heat and let sit 1 hr. Pour off water. Add 2 qts of water and 1/2 lb of ham. Bring to a boil. Stir occasionally. Simmer for 2 to 2 1/2 hours, then add remaining ingredients. Simmer another 30 minutes (60 minutes if optional vegetables are added).