Mixed Bean Soup

1. Rinse beans; transfer to 4-quart Dutch oven and add the 4 cups water. Bring to boiling; reduce heat. Simmer for 2 minutes; remove from heat. Cover and let stand for 1 hour. (Or, omit simmering and soak beans in cold water overnight in a covered Dutch oven.) Drain and rinse beans in a colander.

2. In the same covered Dutch oven cook the celery, onion, carrot, and garlic in the hot oil until tender, stirring once or twice. Add beans. Stir in the 3 cups water, the vegetable broth, thyme, marjoram, and pepper. Bring to boiling; reduce heat. Simmer covered, for 1-1/4 to 1-1/2 hours or until beans are tender. Stir in the undrained tomatoes and vegetable juice. Heat through. If desired, garnish with fresh marjoram.