Wild Mushroom, Bean and Barley Soup Mix

Directions

1. Place ½ teaspoon black pepper in the bottom of 6 (1-pint) jars. (If making in 8-ounce jars, half all ingredients.) Pour ¼ cup red lentils into each jar.
2. Place one bay leaf in each jar, vertically against the inside of the glass, anchoring the tip in the lentils. Pour ½ cup barley into each jar, holding bay leaf against jar until the barley keeps it in place.
3. Place ¼ cup mushrooms in each jar. Press down to eliminate air pockets.
4. Pour ¼ cup split yellow peas in each jar, followed by a heaping 2 tablespoons of vegetables in each jar.
5. Top each jar with 1 teaspoon dill weed, and place lids tightly on jars. Makes 6 (1-pint) jars, each jar serves 8.

To make the soup:

1. Combine 1 pint soup mix, 4 cups water and 2 cups vegetable broth in a saucepan over medium-high heat. Bring to a boil. Stir well, cover, reduce heat and simmer 45 minutes. Stir in 2 more cups vegetable broth and 1 teaspoon salt.
2. Bring back to a boil, reduce heat and simmer 40 to 50 minutes, until barley and peas are tender.