Taco Soup

1 lb lean ground beef or turkey
1 pkg taco seasoning mix
1 pkg dry ranch dressing mix
2 cans diced tomatoes
1 can ranch style beans
1 can pinto beans with jalapenos
1 can chopped green chilies
1 can white hominy
1 chopped onion

Brown ground beef. Add all other ingredients (don't drain any of the cans). Simmer 20 minutes. Serve with grated cheese and tortilla chips or corn bread.

Potato Soup

3 cups diced potatoes
1/4 cup chopped onions
1/4 cup chopped carrots (optional)
2 cups milk
3 cups water
3 tbsp. butter
1 tbsp. fresh parsley
1 tbsp. fresh cilantro
1/3 cup ground Parmesan cheese
2 tbsp. all purpose flour
1 tsp. salt
1 tsp. pepper
1 tsp Mrs. Dash original
2 cubes of chicken bouillon
2 tsp. Italian seasoning

Bring water to a boil, add fresh herbs and vegetables. Let boil for 5 minutes, add milk, butter, boil for 3 minutes more; add spices and seasonings, then add flour and cheese. Stir very well so that the flour and cheese do not clump; continue stirring. Serve when vegetables are tender and flavors are well blended.

Serve topped with cheddar cheese and add a few saltine crackers.