Multi-bean soup with grains makes a delicious, filling and healthy lunch or dinner. It is perfect for fall and winter, and it's cheap, easy to make, and healthy! My picky kid loves it, and if using the instant pot you can make it in a fraction of the time!
Even though it isn't mandatory, quick soaking your grains and beans mix will result in a softer texture that is easier on your stomach. I like to rinse, add to a regular pot and cover with 3-4 inches of water. Bring to a boil, turn off and cover. Let sit for 1-3.5 hours. Drain and rinse well before adding to your soup.
Using the sauté function on your Instant Pot, heat up 2 TBSP of olive oil and sauté onions with a pinch of salt and pepper until tender. Add minced garlic and cook another minute. Add undrained diced tomatoes. Add your 5.5 cups of hot water, ham and chicken bouillon and stir. Add Bob’s Red Mill grains mix that has been soaked and drained to your Instant Pot. (Note: If you didn't pre soak your mix, you will need to add more water. I would add an extra 1/2 - 1 1/2 cup more.)
Give it one last stir, wipe any crumbs or drips off of the top rim of the pot and seal up your Instant Pot. On the bean soup setting, pressure cook it on high pressure for 42 minutes and then do a slow release of the pressure by letting it depressurize on its own keeping it on the "keep warm" function. I like to wait at least 20-30 minutes on the slow release before dishing up.
There will be a difference in water requirements for the slow cooker. You can either reduce the beans to 2 cups, or add extra water as needed. Add all ingredients to the cooker at once (except for the tomatoes with juice), adding a few pinches of salt and pepper. (You can sauté your onions and garlic in olive oil before adding to the cooker if you prefer.) Stir and cook on high for 6 hours or until done. I like to add the tomatoes during the last 45 minutes to ensure the beans cook all the way. Keep an eye on it, and if it needs more water due to evaporation, you can add more. I personally don’t defrost my ham when adding it, since it isn't very much frozen food being added.
Note: Since some slow cookers are much slower than others, it might be wise to start early with your first attempt and document how long it took to cook until done so you can adjust this recipe as needed.