Hobo Meatball Stew

INGREDIENTS
1 pound ground beef

1-1/2 teaspoons salt or salt-free seasoning blend, divided

1/2 teaspoon pepper, divided

4 medium potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks

4 medium carrots, cut into chunks

1 large onion, cut into chunks

1/2 cup water

1/2 cup ketchup

1-1/2 teaspoons cider vinegar

1/2 teaspoon dried basil


DIRECTIONS
In a bowl, combine the beef, 1 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Shape into 1-in. balls. In a skillet over medium heat, brown meatballs on all sides; drain.
Place the potatoes, carrots and onion in a 3-qt. slow cooker; top with meatballs. Combine the water, ketchup, vinegar, basil, and remaining salt and pepper; pour over meatballs. Cover and cook on high for 4-5 hours or until the vegetables are tender. Yield: 4 servings.