Peasant Bean Soup

Ingredients

• 1 pound dried great northern beans, washed and sorted
• 2-1/2 quarts cold water, divided
• 3 medium carrots, sliced
• 3 celery ribs, sliced
• 2 medium onions, chopped
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 can (16 ounces) stewed tomatoes, cut up
• 1 to 2 bay leaves
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste