HEARTY TOMATO RICE SOUP

2 tablespoons butter
1 lb. hamburger
1 cup onion, chopped
1/2 cup celery, chopped
1 large can tomatoes
2 1/2 cup water
2 beef bouillon cubes
1/3 cup dry rice
salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon fresh basil or half teaspoon dried
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced or 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

Saute hamburger and onion in butter; add celery. Break up hamburger into small pieces.

Combine with remaining ingredients. Cook over low heat 30 minutes or until rice is tender.

Optional: Use chopped steak instead of hamburger. Stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream 10 minutes before serving.