1.
In a large pot over medium high heat, place the beans in 1.5L water. Bring to the boil, and let boil 10 minutes. Cover, remove from heat and let stand 1 hour. Drain, and rinse.
2.
In a slow cooker, combine soaked beans and 1.5L fresh water. Cover, and cook for 3 hours on High.
3.
Stir in all of the remaining ingredients except for the rice. Cook on Low for 2 to 3 hours. Stir the rice into the slow cooker in the last 20 minutes of cooking.
4.
Purée about half of the soup in a blender or food processor, then pour back into the pot before serving.