BASIC HEALTHY SLOW COOKER SOUP MIX & SOUP RECIPE

This mix makes 12 1/2 cups of a healthy soup mix. You make this up and it will keep up to 6 months when stored in a cool, dry place.

1 pkg (14-oz) dry green split peas
1 pkg (12-oz) pearl barley
1 pkg (14-oz) alphabet macaroni or other small pasta
1 pkg (12-oz) dry lentils
1 1/2 cups brown rice
1/4 cup dry onion flakes

Combine all ingredients in a large airtight container and stir well to mix.  Keep in a cool, dry place.  Shake before measuring out an amount for use.

SOUP FOR THE DAY WITH THE ABOVE MIX
8 cups water
1 1/2 cups soup mix above
1/2 tsp salt
2 sliced carrots
1 celery stalks, sliced
1 cup chopped cabbage
1 can (6-oz) tomato paste
1 lb cooked ground beef or cooked roast beef, shredded

Combine all the ingredients in a crockpot or other slow cooker.  Place lid on cooker and cook soup on high 4 to 6 hours or on low 8 to 10 hours.

Yield: 6 to 8 servings

Note: You can substitute chicken or turkey for the beef, you can add a can of diced tomatoes, change the vegetables out for corn, etc.  There are a lot of possibilities with this soup mix.