1 lb. lean ground meat
2 med. onions, peeled and quartered
2 med. cloves garlic, crushed (optional)
1/2 c. hot water
2 tbsp. minced fresh basil or 1 tsp. dried
1 1/2 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. pepper
8 med. new potatoes with skins
2 med. green peppers, cut in eighths and seeded
1 (1 lb.) can tomatoes, drained and broken up

In Dutch oven, brown beef, breaking up pieces with spoon. Add onions, garlic, water, basil, salt, pepper, and potatoes. Cover and simmer 15 minutes or until potatoes are almost tender. Add peppers and tomatoes; simmer 10 minutes or until all is tender. Serve in bowls. Good with crusty bread. Melon wedges for dessert. Makes 4 servings.