2 lbs. ground beef, browned
1/2 c. butter
1/2 c. flour
1-1/2 quarts water
1 c. chopped onion
1 c. chopped carrot
1 c. chopped celery
1 10 oz. package frozen mixed vegetables
1-1/2 tbls. beef bouillon granules
1-1/2 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. pepper
After browning ground beef, set aside. In same big pot melt butter; add flour and cook over low heat 3 to 5 minutes or until a smooth paste forms. Gradually add water, stirring constantly. Cook over medium heat until bubbly, stirring occasionally. Add ground beef and remaining ingredients. Bring to a boil; reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 1 hour.
Note: I have made this minus the frozen vegetables and bouillon and it was still good.
Stage Two Option: Add 1-28 oz. can chopped tomatoes and 1-15 oz. can tomato sauce.