Belly Button Soup

Oh stop it.  You have to admit that the name is fitting.  This hearty flavorful soup has always been a family favorite, and it never fails to remind me of my lovely Madre and her good home cookin'.



Belly Button Soup

• 1 quart beef broth
• 1 quart stewed tomatoes2-3 cloves fresh minced garlic
• 1 cup carrots chopped
• 1 cup onions chopped
• 1 cup celery chopped
• 1 can green beans- including the liquid
• 1/2 cup salsa- heat is your preference
• 1 tsp basil
• 1 Tbs vinegar
• 7 oz. cheese tortellini (dry not frozen)
• 1 lb. ground beef, cooked and drained

Combine all the ingredients except the tomatoes and tortellini.  Simmer for 5 minutes, then add the tortellini and cook until the pasta is done.  Add the tomatoes and simmer another 2-3 minutes.  Yield: 6-8 servings.