Bean Soup(Serves 4)

Directions

1. 1
   To avoid gas from beans soak beans in 9 cups water for a minimum of 4 to 5 hours.
2. 2
   Drain and discard water.
3. 3
   In a large pot over high heat, bring 9 cups water to a boil.
4. 4
   Add soaked beans and oil, to reduce foaming (may be omitted to reduce fat and top of liquid skimmed with a spoon), turn heat down to simmer.
5. 5
   Cover loosely and cook for 1 hour.
6. 6
   Drain water from beans and repeat previous step, cooking until beans are tender.
7. 7
   Drain again reserving 1/2 cup liquid.
8. 8
   Dissolve seasonings from bag in this liquid and return to pot with beans.
9. 9
   Add liquid and tomatoes along with vegetables.
10. 10
    Serve hot with low-fat crackers for a well balanced meal.