Instructions: Add beans to 3 cups boiling water; boil for 2 minutes. Cover and let stand 1 to 4 hours. Drain and rinse well. Place beans in kettle. Add 6 cups water, onion, garlic, basil, oregano, salt, pepper and ham or beef bones. Bring to boil. Cover and simmer 1 hour or until beans are almost tender. Add tomatoes, vegetables, macaroni and parsley, breaking up tomatoes. Cover and simmer 1/2 hour longer or until ingredients are done. Add more water if a thinner consistency is desired. Adjust seasonings. Serve with grated Parmesan cheese.

Makes 2 to 2-1/2 quarts.

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