1 lb. ground beef
1/2 c. dry bread crumbs
1 egg
2/3 tbsp. grated onion
1 tsp. salt
1/8 tsp. pepper
1/8 tsp. nutmeg (optional)
2 tbsp. beef flavor base

Mix all ingredients lightly, except beef base. Gently form into small balls, brown in hot shortening, drain, and add 1 1/4 cups hot water. Cover and simmer 20 minutes. Add beef base. Thicken gravy.