Do you buy dried beans? Do you buy vegetable broth or stock?

Thanks to a great deal on a HUGE bag of Jasmine rice (thanks hubs) I have not really checked out the dried goods section of the grocery store in a while. I buy canned goods but overall I had not given the dry goods section a good look in a few months. So when I came across a great deal on the 13 bean soup mix dried beans I picked one up. The recipe called for ham and as I am cutting out meat I had to get creative (mostly so my husband would eat it and would not complain it was dull). I sauteed onions and fresh tomatoes and then added one can of no salt tomatoes. Then I added some kosher salt, parsley, garlic, onion powder, lime juice, and a teaspoon of curry. I know that seems a little random but let me tell you it was so good. I have been thinking about buying vegetable broth much like chicken or beef broth. But, since I am trying to cut out so many outside chemicals and hormones I am not sure if I am going to buy vegetable broth or make my own. I may need to research my options when it comes to broth.
I have not made beans this way in a long time. I soaked them all day (which was about ten hours while I was at work) and when I got home I rinsed the beans and made sure to pull out any rocks or weird beans. Which happens. Sounds weird. But, it does. I put a pot of water on to boil then added the beans and the dried seasonings. I let that boil for about 20 minutes then turned the heat down to medium high and added the onions, tomatoes, and lime juice. Next I let it all simmer for about an hour. It may take you longer or shorter depending on how long the beans soak in water or how long you keep them at a boil. I also noticed the back of the bag had very clear directions for making certain versions of this soup. Some with ham, some with veggies, and one with both. So it is easy to follow the recipe and makes for a protein packed dinner. As I am currently on day two(Oh my Lord) of Medifast it was important for me to have my lean green meal. So, with my beans (as my source of protein) I made kale and had water with lemon juice. A very easy dinner. Water with lemon is a good cleansing, crisp, and flavorful drink when you are trying to avoid drinking Coke or sugar juice.
Oh and my friend Censie had asked about the Kale. I used half a white onion (sauteed), pepper, and the broth from my soup. I cut the thick center stem off the kale and gave it a quick chop. After adding kale into the pot with my onions and broth I brought it all to a boil for about three minutes then let it simmer for ten. Jared likes it to be a little softer so he waited a little longer for it to simmer than I did. Taste test it and decide what you like. Kale is really very good and (yes Jared introduced me to it) I really like it. Kale has a little bit of a taste like greens. It is a little tart but very clean and crisp. You can add red wine vinegar like you would with greens or spinach. Season to taste and enjoy.
What are your favorite winter meals? Soup, casserole, and hot sandwiches are some of our favorites.
I will be making a chicken pot pie this week for my husband and for myself a vegetarian version with a lot of fresh veggies and instead of a crust on top and bottom for mine I am going to try something different. I will show you guys that later.
Please leave a comment below. Also, I am planning a giveaway the first week of January so stay tuned!