1 lb. ground chuck
1 tbsp. oil
1 c. each diced potatoes & carrots
2 tsp. salt
1 tsp. beef bouillon granules
1 crumbled bay leaf
1 qt. canned tomatoes
1 c. chopped onion
4 c. hot water
1/2 tsp. pepper
Pinch of basil

Brown beef in Dutch oven. Add onions, water, vegetables and seasoning. Bring to boil. Simmer until vegetables are tender. Add tomatoes and their liquid. Simmer 10 minutes more. Any other vegetables, such as corn, green beans, may also be added.