9 oz. dry kidney or pinto beans
2 tbsp. plus 2 tsp. olive oil
1 c. chopped onions
1 c. chopped celery
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 tsp. dried oregano
1/2 tsp. dried basil
1 bay leaf
2 (8 oz.) cans tomato sauce
5 c. water
3 oz. uncooked Orzo, or other small macaroni

Place beans in a large saucepan. Add enough water to come to 2 inches above level of beans. Bring to a boil over medium heat. Boil 2 minutes. Remove from heat, cover and let stand 1 hour. Drain beans and place in a bowl.

In the saucepan, heat oil over medium heat. Add onions, celery and garlic. Cook 10 minutes, until onions are tender. Add beans and remaining ingredients, except Orzo. Bring to a boil.

Reduce heat to low, cover and simmer until beans are tender, about 2 hours. Add Orzo. Cook 10 minutes. Remove and discard bay leaf before serving. Makes 8 servings.

Exchanges: 1 V; 1 F; 1/2 P; 1/2 B; 5 OPT.