Autumn Blend Soup

Description
Makes 6 servings.

Ingredients

 * 1 cup dried small red beans
 * 1/2 cup dried lentils
 * 1/4 cup dried white navy beans
 * 1/4 cup split peas
 * 8 cups chicken broth
 * 1/3 cup instant minced onions
 * 2 teaspoons crushed basil leaves
 * 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
 * 1/4 teaspoon cumin powder
 * 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
 * 1/8 teaspoon ground ginger
 * 1 bay leaf
 * 2/3 cup uncooked rice
 * Sliced green onion tops for garnish (optional)

Directions
Wash beans and combine with 6 cups water in Dutch oven. Bring to a boil and boil 5 minutes. Remove from heat; let stand 30 minutes. Drain. Return beans to saucepan. Add chicken broth and spices. Bring to a boil. Cover, reduce heat, and simmer 45 minutes. Add rice and continue simmering for an additional 45 minutes for brown rice, 25 minutes for parboiled rice, or 20 minutes for regular-milled rice, or until beans and rice are tender. Adjust seasonings to taste. Garnish each serving with sliced green onion tops, if desired.