Friendship Soup

****** Layered Soup Mix In A Jar ******

These would make great gifts for Christmas or hostess gifts, or anytime of the year gift.....

1/2-cup dry split peas,
1/3-cup beef bouillon granules,
1/4-cup pearl barley,
1/2 cup dry lentils,
1/4 cup dried minced onion,
2 teaspoons Italian seasoning,
1/2-cup uncooked long grain rice,
1/2-cup alphabet macaroni or other small macaroni (can be put in a plastic sandwich bag to make it easier for the recipient to get out of jar)

ADDITIONAL INGREDIENTS
1 pound ground beef,
3 quarts water,
1 can ( 28 ounces ) diced tomatoes, undrained

In a 1-1/2-pint jar, layer the first eight ingredients in the order listed. Seal tightly. Yield: 1 batch.

*Instructions to attach to jar*

***Friendship Soup Mix***
To prepare soup: Carefully remove macaroni from top of jar and set aside. In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, brown beef; drain. Add the water, tomatoes and soup mix; bring to a boil Reduce heat; cover and simmer for 45 minutes. Add reserved macaroni; cover and simmer for 15 to 20 minutes or until macaroni, peas, lentils and barley are tender. Yield: 16 servings (4 quarts)