Split Pea Soup in a Jar

2-1/2 cups green split peas (16-oz. pkg.)

2-1/2 cups lentils (16 oz. pkg.)

2-1/2 cups pearl barley (16-oz. pkg.)

2 cups alphabet macaroni (8 oz. pkg.)

1 cup dried onion flakes

1/2-cup celery flakes

1/2-cup parsley flakes

1-1/2 tsp. thyme

1-1/2 tsp. white pepper

Mix all ingredients together. Store in a jar with a tight-fitting lid. Stir before using. Makes 10 cups of mix.

TO COOK: Combine 1 cup of soup mix with 4 cups of water or seasoned stock in large pan. Add 1 cup of cooked chopped meat, if desired. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low and cover pan. Simmer gently for 45 to 60 minutes, or until peas are tender. Add 1/2 tsp. of salt if desired.