Stuffed Green Peppers

Directions

1. In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, combine tomatoes, onion, celery, tomato sauce, water, 1 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer, 10-15 minutes.
2. Meanwhile, cut tops off the green peppers and remove seeds; set aside. In a bowl, combine ground beef, rice, basil and remaining salt and pepper; mix well. Fill peppers with beef mixture. Carefully place peppers in tomato sauce. Spoon some sauce over tops of peppers.
3. Cover and simmer until beef is cooked and peppers are tender, 40-45 minutes.