I call this “Anytime Soup,” because it’s made of things you probably have on hand or that can easily be substituted for what you do have on hand, and because we have enjoyed this soup anytime of the year. If you are familiar with making Gumbo, you probably know about the “holy trinity” of Cajun gumbo. I’ll give that to you later in a gumbo recipe. I have my own “cooking trinity” of herbs and spices that I use generally in all soups, and most ground beef recipes, no matter what other spices or herbs I use. Those three ingredients are basil, onion powder, and garlic powder. My brother, his wife, and I created this recipe together and made it several times when we were together at Mama’s and Daddy’s home. Mine usually isn’t exactly the same twice in a row since I tweak it to taste each time I make it. I hope you enjoy it as much as our family does.

Frozen pkg of “Gumbo Mixed Vegetables”

1 qt. Tomatoes (canned works best)

1 lb. Browned Hamburger Meat

Salt to taste

1 1/2 tsp Basil, or to taste

1 1/2 tsp Garlic Powder, or to taste

1 1/2 tsp Onion Powder, or to taste

There is no need to thaw the vegetables. Simply combine all ingredients in a large pot like a Dutch oven. Bring to a boil, and turn down to a simmer. Simmer until vegetables are done.

We eat this with cornbread. It tastes like the perfect complement to this soup.

NOTE: To make this soup fun for kids, you can add some fun shaped pasta to the soup. Simply cook soup until all ingredients are hot through and pasta is done to taste.