Soak overnight: 1 1/4 pounds dry beans. Mix as many different varieties of beans as you can find, including lentils and split peas. (Some supermarkets carry packaged pre-mixed beans). Drain and rinse.

Add:

9 c. water
3 stalks celery, chopped
3 carrots, chopped
1 lg. onion, chopped
2 beef bouillon cubes
2 chicken bouillon cubes

Simmer for 2 hours.

Add:

1/2 tsp. each cumin, garlic powder, cayenne pepper
2 tbsp. Kikkoman lite soy sauce

You may want to add a little more of these depending on your taste. Simmer for 30 to 45 minutes.

Optional additions at the end (but recommended) :

1/3 c. sake (Japanese rice wine)
1 c. homemade chicken or beef stock

This soup also makes a satisfying main course, served with French bread and salad.