Ingredients: (serves 13)

2 pounds ground beef

½ cup butter or margarine

½ cup all-purpose flour

1½ quarts water

1 cup chopped onion

1 cup chopped carrot

1 cup chopped celery

1 10-ounce package frozen mixed vegetables

1 28-ounce can tomatoes, undrained and chopped

1 15-ounce can tomato sauce with tomato bits

1½ tablespoons beef-flavored bouillon granules

1½ teaspoons salt

2 teaspoons pepper

Brown ground beef in a large Dutch oven, stirring to crumble. Drain well, and set aside.

Melt butter in same Dutch oven; add flour and cook over low heat 3 to 5 minutes or until a smooth paste forms. Gradually add water, stirring constantly; cook over medium heat until bubbly, stirring occasionally. Add ground beef and remaining ingredients.

Bring to a boil; reduce heat and simmer, uncovered, for 1 hour.