Step 1

Layer all ingredients in a clean glass jar (pint size) in the order listed. Close lid, add tag, and gift.

Step 2

Remove wrapper from bouillon cube, add it, plus all remaining ingredients, plus water into a saucepan. Bring to a boil over high heat, reduce heat to low, and simmer until the soup is cooked. Remove and discard the chile pepper and bay leaves, if used, before serving. Season to taste.