16 Bean and Bacon Soup

Does the soup really have 16 beans? I have no idea. But this was modified from a soup my dad serves at his restaurant. He never counted the exact number of different types of beans so neither do I. It probably has less fat and ultimately slightly less flavor than his but is much healthier and still satisfying. This soup can be made with ham, smoked tofu or omitting the meat and adding liquid smoke or aminos.

Ingredients:

• Dried bean soup mix
• Dried butter beans
• Dried lentils
• 1/2 cup red onion
  
• 3 pieces of thick cut bacon
• 1 ham bouillon
• Cilantro
• Garlic
• Salt
• Pepper
• Vegetable flakes
• Bay leaves
• Water

Directions:

• Soak beans for 2 hours (omit lentils)
• Sautee diced onions and bacon in bacon fat
• Cut bacon into small squares
• Add soaked beans, water, ham bouillon and seasonings to crock pot
• Cook on high for 2 hours
• Add lentils
• Add additional water if necessary
• Cook until all beans are done and soup base becomes thicker

Enjoy!