1 1/2 lb. ground beef
3/4 c. soft bread crumbs
1/2 tsp. salt
1 tsp. vegetable oil
2 (8 oz.) cans tomato sauce
1/2 tsp. dried whole thyme
2 (10 oz.) pkg. frozen mixed vegetables
1 egg, slightly beaten
3/4 c. finely chopped onion, divided
1 (10 1/2 oz.) can beef broth, undiluted
1/4 tsp. freshly ground pepper

Combine ground beef, egg, bread crumbs, 1/4 onion, and salt; mix well. Shape into 1 inch balls. Saute meatballs and remaining 1/2 cup onion in hot oil until meatballs are browned; drain off excess drippings. Combine beef broth, tomato sauce, seasonings and vegetables in a Dutch oven. Cover and simmer over medium heat 10 minutes. Add meat balls, cover and simmer 5 minutes or until vegetables are tender and meatballs are done. Yields 8 cups.