Pumpkin and Bean Soup

 Ingredients:

• 1 16-ounce can of white beans
• 1 onion (finely chopped)
• 1 cup water
• 1 15-ounce can of pumpkin
• 1 1/2 cup apple juice
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/8 teaspoon nutmeg, allspice, or ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

 Directions:

1. Blend white beans, onion, and water with a masher or blender till smooth.
2. In a large pot, add the pumpkin, juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, black pepper, and salt. Stir.
3. Add the blended bean mix to the pot.
4. Cook over low heat for 15-20 minutes, until warmed through.

 Cut Down on Choking:

For kids 2-4 years old, serve food in the following way:

• Make sure onions are chopped in bite-sized pieces, a size of 1/4-inch or less.
• Take the white beans out of the portion you serve the children. Whole beans choking hazards.
• Puree, blend or mash all ingredients in this recipe. Firm, smooth, or slippery foods like onions and beans can slide down kids’ throat before chewing.