Poor Man's Soup (p1)
This is a very basic soup that my Grandmother used to make. She grew up during the depression and when I was little she'd sometimes make dishes that she grew up eating. This is one of them.
Its so easy, inexpensive and basic. Of course you could add other seasonings and ingredients but its really not necessary as the simplicity is whats so good. When I was little sometimes my Grandma would get a veggie mix that included water chestnuts... I was hooked. Now I add the water chestnuts in as I love the texture it adds!

32oz can of tomato juice
32 oz bag of frozen baby California mix: carrots, broccoli, and cauliflower
32 oz bag of frozen veggies: lima beans, peas, diced carrots, and corn mix
16 oz water
2 cans of water chestnuts, drained
salt and pepper to taste
2 lbs hamburger meat, cooked and drained

Cook Hamburger meat and drain well. While meat is cooking add tomato juice, water, all the veggies and water chestnuts in a large stock pot and bring to a good simmer or low boil. When meat is cooked crumble it into small bits and add it to the veggies. Add salt and pepper and let sit for 10 to 15 mins. Taste and add more salt if needed. Reheat if desired and serve!

As with most soups, stews and chili's this taste even better the next day when reheated! Add some crusty bread and you got a fabulous and easy meal! ENJOY!!