Beef and Bean Starter for Tortellini Soup

Ingredients

• 2 1/2 lbs stewing beef
• 2 (15 ounce) cans diced tomatoes with basil oregano and garlic (or Italian Style diced tomatoes)
• 2 (16 ounce) cans dark red kidney beans
• 2 (16 ounce) cans great northern beans
• salt, pepper
• 1 (12 ounce) package frozen cheese tortellini
• 5 cups beef stock or broth
• 1 (16 ounce) package bird's eye frozen broccoli and corn, blend
• 1/2 teaspoon italian seasoning

Directions

1. 1

   For the starter - place the beef, beans (drained), tomatoes and salt/pepper in crock pot - cook for 7-8 hours on low or 4-6 hours on high.

2. 2

   When the starter is done, divide in 2 batches about 5 cups each.

3. 3

   For the soup - start with 1 batch of the starter in a large stock pot, add the broth, tortellini, frozen veggies, and italian seasoning - bring to a boil then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes or until tortellini is cooked through and veggies are tender.