1 cup large lima beans, soaked
3/4 cup finely chopped carrots (2 medium)
1-1/3 cups finely chopped celery (3 stalks)
1 cup chopped tomatoes (1 medium)
6 cups water
2 tablespoons butter
1/2 cup finely chopped onion
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
2 tablespoons all purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
Freshly ground black pepper to taste
In a large saucepan over medium-high heat, combine soaked lima beans, carrots, celery, tomatoes and water. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat, and simmer, partially covered, until beans and vegetables are tender, about 1 hour.
In a small skillet over low heat, melt butter. Add onion and parsley; cook until onion is soft, about 5 minutes. Stir in flour and cook 1 minute; stir mixture into soup and simmer until soup is slightly thickened, about 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
Makes 4 cups. Serves 4. Recipe can be doubled.