1 lb. ground round
1 c. diced potatoes
1 c. sliced celery
1 c sliced carrots
3 c. water
2 tbsp. sugar (optional)
1/4 tsp. thyme
2-4 c. tomatoes
3 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. basil

Brown meat and drain. Combine all ingredients in a large pot. Simmer covered for one hour.