Friendship Soup in a Jar

This is a great one to give as teacher gifts.  We gave it to both of my daughters teachers for Christmas. 

1/2 c. Dry Split Peas
1/3 c. Beef Bouillon Granules
1/4 c. Pearl Barley
1/2 c. Dry Lentils
1/4 c. Dried Onion Flakes
2 tsp. Dried Italian Seasoning
1/2 c. uncooked long grain white rice
2 Bay Leaves
1/2 c. uncooked alphabet pasta

If you want to layer it in a jar, do it in order from top to bottom.  Wrap the pasta in plastic wrap and place in the jar.  Attach the following to the jar:

Friendship Soup Additional Ingredients:  1 lb. browned ground beef, black pepper to taste, garlic powder to taste, 1 (28 oz.) can diced tomatoes-undrained, 1 (16 oz.) can tomato paste, & 3 quarts of water.  To prepare soup: Remove pasta from top of the jar and set aside.  In a large pot over medium heat, brown beef with pepper & garlic; drain excess fat.  Add diced tomatoes, tomato paste, water, & Soup mix.  Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low.  Cover & simmer for 45 minutes.  Stir in pasta, cover, and simmer for 15 to 20 minutes or until pasta, peas, lentils, & barley are tender.