Not So Meaty Bean Soup

Directions

In a 3-quart saucepan combine beans from bean mix and 7 cups water.

Bring to boiling; reduce heat.

Cover; simmer for 2 minutes.

Remove from heat.

Let stand, covered, 1 hour.

(Or, soak overnight in a covered pan.)

Drain and rinse beans.

To beans, add 6 cups fresh water and seasonings from bean mix.

Bring to boiling; reduce heat.

Cover; simmer for 1½ hours.

Add ½ teaspoon seasoned salt.

Stir in ¼ teaspoon Kitchen Bouquet if desired.

Return to boiling; reduce heat.

Cover; simmer for 30 minutes more or until beans are tender.

Remove from heat.

Place about 2 cups bean mixture in a blender coontainer.

Cover; blend until smooth.

Return blended mixture to saucepan; heat through.