4 cups thinly sliced onions
1 clove garlic, minced
3 tablespoons butter
3 tablespoons flour
6 cans (14 1/2 oz each) beef broth
2 cups tomato puree
1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
1 tablespoon worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon sugar
1/2 teaspoon EACH dried oregano, tarragon, ground cumin, salt and pepper
1/4-1/2 teaspoon hot pepper sauce

VEGETABLES (choose two OR three):
1 1/2 cups diced green pepper, tomato OR carrots
2 cups sliced fresh mushrooms

MEATS (choose two):
3 cups cooked mini meatballs
3 cups cubed cooked chicken
3 cups diced fully cooked ham
1 package (10 oz) smoked kielbasa, sliced and browned

GARNISH (choose three OR four):
shredded cheddar cheese, garbanzo beans, sour cream, minced fresh parsley, croutons OR popcorn

in a large dutch oven, saute the onions and garlic in butter until tender. stir in flour and blend well. add broth, puree, vinegar and seasonings; mix well. bring to a boil; reduce heat and simmer for 40 minutes.

add two or three vegetables; simmer for 30 minutes or until tender. add two meats; heat through. garnish as desired.

16-18 (1 cup) servings (4 1/2 quarts)