1 pkg. beef stew meat
1 medium onion, diced
4 potatoes, peeled and cubed (optional)
2 cups frozen mixed vegetables
2 pkgs. onion soup mix (Lipton)
8 cups water
salt, pepper, garlic powder and Mrs. Dash, to taste

Cook stew meat, diced onion and cubed potatoes (if desired) in a frying pan coated in Pam (or whatever oil you generally cook with). Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder and Mrs. Dash.

Put frozen vegetables, onion soup mix and water into a large pot. Once the meat is brown, place all ingredients into the pot. If you did not put the potatoes in with the meat and onion, place the potatoes in the pot as well.

Add some more seasoning: salt, pepper, Mrs. Dash (optional).

Bring soup to a boil and then let simmer for about an hour, or until the potatoes are soft. This recipe make a fairly hearty soup.

Note: For a low-sodium version of this recipe: Omit salt and use low-sodium onion soup mix. You may also use beef broth as a base, and this comes in a low sodium version also.

Alternative: Once meat has been browned, place all ingredients in a slow cooker/Crock-Pot and let simmer for a few hours.

Submitted by: Liz Hirtle