Krystal's Taco Soup

Remember, the more chili powder and red pepper used, and longer simmering times will increase the heat of this recipe.

1 lb. hamburger, browned (season with salt, pepper and onion)
2 cans beans, any type, undrained - I prefer kidney and pinto
2 cans corn, undrained
1 can diced tomatoes*
1 can tomato sauce*
1-2 Tbsp. dehydrated onion (if using fresh, use more)
1 tsp. salt
1/2-1 tsp. chili powder
1/2 tsp. cornstarch
1/2 tsp. garlic powder
1/4 tsp. oregano
1/2-3/4 tsp. ground cumin
crushed red pepper to taste

Mix all ingredients and boil. Simmer if you want for as long as you want. If you cook this in a crock pot, don't use as much chili powder and red pepper because the long cooking time intensifies their flavors, unless you want it hot. If you don't want it hot, add them the last hour. (Depending on who I'm cooking for, I'd rather make it real mild and spice it up in the end, then cause indigestion).

*When it comes to tomatoes in this soup I have played around with different things: tomato sauce and paste, crushed/diced tomatoes, tomato juice, and even tomato soup - which makes it a little creamy. Use what you have and try different things to see what you like.