1/2 lb. ground beef
1 16 oz. can stewed tomatoes, undrained
1 8 oz. can tomato sauce
2 cups water
2 cups frozen mixed vegetables
1/4 c. (1 envelope) onion soup mix
1 tsp. sugar (optional)
1 can lower sodium beef broth
1/2 tsp. Kitchen Bouquet
few shakes red pepper flakes
1/2 - 1 cup wine (optional)
bay leaf
extra water, as needed

Cook beef in a heavy 3 qt. saucepan until browned, stirring to crumble; drain off drippings. Stir in remaining ingredients, and bring to a boil. Cover and reduce heat. Simmer 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Can add 1 potato, diced small and/or 1/2 cup small pasta.

Makes about 8 cups.