INGREDIENTS

1. 1 1/2cups10 bean soup mix
2. 6cups coldwater
3. 1largeonion, chopped
4. 2largecarrots, chopped
5. 3hot Italian sausages or italian sweet sausage, sliced
6. 1 (28 ounce)candiced tomatoes, undrained
7. 1teaspoonchili powder
8. 1pinchground cloves
9. 2tablespoonsdry sherry (optional)
10. 1tablespoonlemon juice
11. salt and pepper

DIRECTIONS

1. Rinse the bean mix, cover generously with cold water, and let soak for 8 hours or overnight.
2. Drain.
3. In a large saucepan, combine the bean mixture with 6 cups water.
4. Bring to a boil, reduce the heat, cover and simmer for 1-1/2 hours or until tender.
5. Add the onions, carrots, sausage, tomatoes, chili powder and cloves.
6. Bring to a boil, reduce heat and simmer, uncovered, for 30 minutes or until the flavours are well blended.
7. Stir in the sherry, lemon juice, salt and pepper.