South of the Border Soup

1 egg
1/4 cup dry bread crumbs
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1 pound ground beef
1 jar (16 ounces) picante sauce
1 can (15-1/4 ounces) whole kernel corn, drained
1 can (15 ounces) black beans, rinsed and drained
1 can (14-1/2 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
1-1/4 cups water

In a large bowl, combine the first four ingredients. Crumble beef over mixture and mix well. Shape into 1-in. balls.

In a large saucepan, brown meatballs; drain. Add the picante sauce, corn, beans, tomatoes and water; bring to a boil. Reduce heat; cover and simmer for 20 minutes or until the meat is no longer pink. Makes 8 servings (2 quarts).

To make dry bread crumbs, arrange bread slices, on a baking sheet. Bake at 300° until completely dry and golden; cool. Place in a resealable plastic bag; crush with a rolling pin. Season with salt, pepper and dried herbs if desired. One slice of bread yields about 1/3 cup dry crumbs.