Cabbage Patch Stew

Directions

1. 1
   Put beef, onion, bell pepper and celery in a Dutch oven; cover and steam over medium heat until the meat turns white.
2. 2
   Stir occasionally, breaking meat up with a fork.
3. 3
   The meat may be mashed fine or left in bite-size chunks, as desired.
4. 4
   (To reduce the fat content, drain the meat mixture at this point.)
5. 5
   Add tomatoes, beans, salt and pepper.
6. 6
   Bring to a boil.
7. 7
   Add cabbage, pushing cabbage under the liquid.
8. 8
   Cover and simmer about 20 minutes.
9. 9
   Adjust seasoning.
10. 10
    This freezes well and gets better every time it is warmed over.