Killer Hamburger Soup

As unemployment creeps up, families are looking for more ways to stretch their budgets. recession based budgeting in the kitchen is a good way to reduce your expenses.

This article looks at one type of meal that is inexpensive, full of good tasting ingredients that can be modified to taste and easy to make within 30 minutes.

You can make more than enough for one dinner and have for leftovers or frozen in small containers to be savored as future lunches. Using a Dutch Oven or Crock pot for this meal is preferred, but any large pot will do.

Of course, hamburger is the main ingredient, but there can be infinite variations based on preference.

Broth: Once the Hamburger is cooked, drain the excess grease and place into the pot. Boiling the hamburger is another way of reducing some of the fat content. Once brown, add a can of Beef or vegetable broth to the meat will provide a healthy base and a starting flavor to the dish.

Tomato Base: Many variations include Stewed or Diced Tomatoes, but you can flavored tomato mixtures you can find in stores today to adjust the flavor... Some brands include different seasonings like Italian, Chipotle and chile spices the tomato flavor.

Vegetable Medley: The concoction can have multiple vegetable combinations, based on preference. Potatoes, carrots and onions are the most commonly used in this category. Even here you have some flexibility... No matter what type of potato you use, leaving the outside skins on will add more taste. Obviously, you want to wash the potatoes thoroughly before adding to the soup. New potatoes are small enough that they can be added without being diced, which can reduce the time and effort for preparation. Red, russet or fancy potatoes can be added...whatever you have in stocked in your fridge or pantry will be just fine.

Added Flavors: As the Hamburger soup cooks, the number of ingredients you can use to increase flavor to the dish are countless. Based on preference and taste; Ketchup, Soy Sauce and even some beef bullion cubes can be added to the broth to not only thicken the mixture, but provide a sweet texture. Adding cornstarch paste will thicken the soup into a more gravy like texture.

Hamburger soup is easy, inexpensive and good for the entire family... Whether you use a Dutch Oven or Crock pot, this dish is a great meal for small or large families looking to stretch their food dollars.

This Hamburger Soup Video is another variation, but shows what you can do with this dish...

See more ways you can cook easy meals in minutes Easy-Home-Cooking.com

Tags : anolon advanced 10 piece cookware set kitchenaid gourmet distinctions 10 piece set cuisinart multiclad unlimited 12 piece cookware