I grew up in a large family. Each Sunday, we took turns in the kitchen, with our mother training us. Everyone who tries this soup says it's the best they've ever tasted. I'm a widow(my eight children are all happily married), living in a senior citizens apartment. Many times, I'll give a bowl to my neighbors here. When you make this soup, my suggestion is to put it on and just "leave it cook". You can get so many other household tasks accomplished while it does. Try it and see!.