Hamburger Soup Recipe for All Levels of Cooks

My first introduction to hamburger soup was while having a game night with some friends. My good friend got the recipe from her sister, who is the wife of a farmer and makes it each year when they have their bull sale. Hearty and filling, she makes a substantial amount that satisfies the hungry crowd. As I had never tried it before, I was excited to see how it tasted. Besides a person who loves a new recipe, I'm always looking for something the kids will enjoy and isn't our norm. In short, the hamburger soup tasted phenomenal! The kids had two bowls a piece and raved about the flavor; a compliment to the cook. Well, that was it, the very next week the kids requested I make it again and the rest is history. So, here it is, the popular... Hamburger Soup By Jenn Cook time 1 1/2 -3 hours Items Needed: Large stockpotMedium potChopping boardCutting knifeWhisk Ingredients: 6-9 cups of chicken broth8 cups of diced potatoes (with or without skin).1 1/2 cups chopped carrots1 1/2 cups chopped onion2 lbs. ground beef1 1/2 cups chopped celery1 Tablespoon minced garlic2 teaspoons basil2 teaspoons parsley Ingredients for making the roux: 6 Tablespoons butter1/2 cup flour Additional toppings (optional) Shredded cheeseFritos Directions: In a large stockpot bring 6 cups chicken broth to a boil. Add diced potatoes (with or without the skins). Next, brown the ground beef with desired seasonings. Add to the stockpot. With reserved drippings from the burger, saute onions, carrots, celery, and garlic for 3 to 5 minutes. Add to the stockpot and cook until the veggies reach the desired consistency.At this point, add your basil and parsley. Make your roux by melting the butter and then stirring in your 1/2 cup of flour until you have a paste. Stir into the soup until well mixed. If needed add additional cups of chicken broth. I determine this before adding the roux.Serve. Top each dish with cheese or other desired toppings. Now, if you will excuse me, I'm going to clean up my kitchen ;). Enjoy! -Heather Earles