These days I��m on a mission to whip up cheap, healthy meals. I found a bag of 15 bean soup at the grocery store and decided to try it out. Beans are one of the best food purchases because they cost so little but really go a long way. Here��s what I did to make a HUGE batch of soup that��s going to feed me all week long.

    I soaked the beans overnight in a pot of water and drained off the liquid the next day (soaking them helps improve digestion). Then I brought them to a boil and simmered for 2 hours. My bag of beans came with a meat flavoring packet, but I threw it out. I looked at the ingredients and couldn��t pronounce any of them��so I followed my instincts and tossed it.

    Here��s what I chopped up and added to the beans:

* 1 big tomato

* 3/4 onion

* 3 stalks celery

* 3 cloves garlic

* 2 big carrots

    To season it up I added chili powder, basil, a bay leaf, salt, and pepper to taste. I plan on sprinkling some hot sauce in each bowl too.

    I continued simmering the soup for another hour or two until the beans were tender.

    For this soup, I just added whatever veggies and spices I already had at home. If I want some fresh greens, grains, or meat during the week, I can just add them in when I re-heat. Super quick and easy!