Be Prepared Five-Bean Soup Mix

Recipe View To prepare the bean mix: Combine pinto beans, white kidney beans, kidney beans, lima beans, and garbanzo beans in a large airtight container or a zip-top bag. (5 minutes)

Recipe View To prepare the seasoning mix: In a small zip-top bag, combine dried minced onion, paprika, salt, mustard powder, granulated garlic, chicken bouillon powder, crumbled beef bouillon cubes, dried parsley, bacon bits (if using), and mixed vegetable flakes. Shake well to mix. (5 minutes)

Recipe View Place the seasoning mix bag inside the container with the bean mix. Store at room temperature until ready to use. (2 minutes)

Recipe View When ready to cook, rinse 1 1/2 cups of the bean mix thoroughly in a sieve under running water. (3 minutes)

Recipe View Place the rinsed beans in a 3-quart saucepan. Add 5 cups of water, 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil, and 1/4 cup of the seasoning mix. (5 minutes)

Recipe View Optional: Add one can of whole peeled tomatoes with their juice now, or reserve the tomatoes to add later for a fresher flavor. (2 minutes)

Recipe View Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 2 to 2 1/2 hours, or until the beans are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. (10 minutes)

Recipe View If you reserved the tomatoes, add the remaining cans of tomatoes (crushed or chopped) during the last 30 minutes of cooking time. (5 minutes)

Recipe View Serve hot and enjoy!