1/2 lb. ground chuck
1/2 c. chopped onion
2 c. hot water
3/4 c. chopped celery
3/4 c. diced potatoes
1 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. pepper
1 bay leaf
Pinch of basil
3 whole fresh tomatoes

Brown ground beef slowly. Drain. Add onions and cook 5 minutes more. Add remaining ingredients except tomatoes. Bring to a boil; cover and then simmer 20 minutes. Add tomatoes and simmer for 10 minutes longer. If needed, more water can be added anytime. Makes 2 generous servings.