Sort and rinse beans, then soak overnight in water.

Drain beans and place in crockpot. Add vegetable juice, wine, soy sauce, and apple or pineapple juice. Cover with vegetable stock or water; the amount added depends on whether you prefer a soup (more liquid) or a stew (less). The juice adds just a tad of sweetness and the soy sauce adds depth and the tang of salt.

Cook at high for 2 hours. Add vegetables, herbs, and spices, and cook for 5-6 hours at low until carrots and parsnips are tender. When tender, add rice or pasta and cook for one additional hour.

For beans use 3 or 4 kinds, such as: black, red kidney, pinto, baby lima, lentil, and green and/or yellow split peas.

Most soups and stews can be prepared in a crock pot. Just decrease the liquid ingredients (not as much liquid will evaporate from a closed slowcooker) and let it rip for 6 or more hours.