A good homemade soup can be uncomplicated to make, yet very satisfying to eat, hot and steaming, with crusty buttered bread or rolls. This one combines a small amount of ground beef with cauliflower which is then simmered in a tomato-beef broth. It is excellent for a lunch or light supper. For 4 servings you will need:

1 sm. cauliflower (1 lb.)
1 c. chopped onion
2 tbsp. butter
1 clove garlic, minced or pressed
1/2 lb. ground beef
1 can (8 oz.) tomato sauce
1 1/2-2 c. water
1 c. beef broth
2 tbsp. lemon juice
1/2-1 tsp. dried basil or oregano leaves
Dash cayenne pepper
Salt & black pepper

1. Wash and trim cauliflower. Thinly slice the flowerets. Set aside.

2. In medium saucepan, saute onion in the heated butter until onion is limp. Add the garlic. Saute 1 minute longer. Crumble meat into pan. Saute until browned. Drain excess fat.

3. Stir in cauliflower, tomato sauce, water, broth, lemon juice, herbs and seasonings.

4. Bring to a boil. Cover and simmer 15-20 minutes. Serve immediately.

Tips: When buying cauliflower, look for compact clusters of flowerets with a creamy-white appearance. Surrounding leaves should be fresh and green.

Good served with: Sour dough bread and custard apple tart for dessert. For 2 servings: Half of the ingredients. For 8 servings: Double the ingredients.