Place the Spice/Herb Ingredients in a small bowl, mix well, set aside.
In a large stock pot, add the diced onions; sauté over medium heat until they begin to soften, approximately 7 to 9 minutes. Add a tablespoon or so of vegetable broth or water if they start to stick and/or to prevent burning.
Add the minced garlic to the pot, stir constantly for one minute.
Add all the remaining Base Ingredients (except for the baking soda and butternut squash), and the Spice/Herb Mix, bring to a boil, then add the baking soda, stir well, then lower to a simmer. Simmer for 10 minutes, then add the cubed butternut squash, simmer for 15 to 20 minutes or until the potatoes and butternut squash become tender, stirring occasionally.
Allow to sit for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to marry. Remove and discard the bay leaf. Serve with flatbread and enjoy.
