This is a light, quick-to-prepare main dish for family or friends. Just serve it with hot bread or rolls and fresh fruit for dessert to make a low calorie. For 4 servings you will need:

1 lb. lean ground beef
1 lg. onion, chopped
3 stalks celery, sliced
2 lg. carrots, cut julienne
1 parsnip, peeled, cut julienne
1 sm. head Chinese cabbage or celery cabbage, sliced
2 c. beef broth
1/3 c. uncooked rice
1 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. dried oregano leaves
Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

1. Put ground beef and onion into a heavy pot or Dutch oven. Brown over medium heat, stirring.

2. Add celery, carrots, parsnip and cabbage. Cook until meat is no longer pink and vegetables have begun to get tender, about 5 minutes.

3. Add broth, rice, salt and oregano. Stir. Cover and simmer for 20 minutes. Serve garnished with parsley.

Tips: You may add or substitute other vegetables for the ones called for in this recipe. Fresh broccoli, potatoes, green beans, peas and cauliflower are likely choices.

Good served with: A salad and hot bread. For 2 servings: Half of the ingredients. For 8 servings: Double the ingredients but use only 3 1/2 cups beef broth.