1 lb. ground beef
1 c. chopped onion
1 tbsp. butter
2 c. tomatoes
4 c. hot water
2 bouillon cubes
1 tbsp. salt
1/8 tsp. pepper
1/2 bay leaf
1 c. sliced celery
1/2 tsp. Worcestershire sauce
1 pkg. frozen mixed vegetables
1/2 tsp. thyme; optional

Saute meat and onions in butter until well browned. Add tomatoes, water, bouillon cubes, salt, pepper, bay leaf, celery, and Worcestershire sauce. Bring to a boil; cover and simmer 30 minutes. Add mixed vegetables and thyme. Bring to a boil again; simmer for 15 minutes longer.