Hamburger Soup (Serves 6)

Here is a family friendly soup that is popular with all ages from toddlers to grandparents. It goes together quickly and is actually a meal in itself. Add bread sticks, fresh fruit and milk for a well-rounded menu.

1 pound lean ground beef
1 (14.5-ounce) can tomatoes, cut up or 1 pint home canned tomatoes
3 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
1 medium onion, chopped
1/2 cup chopped celery
3 cups water
3 teaspoons beef base or beef bouillon or 3 bouillon cubes
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/4 teaspoon oregano leaves, crushed
1 cup frozen cut green beans

1. Brown ground beef in 3-quart Dutch oven or soup kettle. Drain off excess fat and pat beef dry with paper towel.

2. In Dutch oven or soup kettle, combine cooked drained ground beef, tomatoes, carrots, potatoes, onion, celery, water, beef base or bouillon cubes, salt pepper and oregano.

3. Bring to a boil; reduce heat, cover and simmer 15 minutes.

4. Add green beans and continue simmering 15 minutes more.