Minestrone - cooking recipe

Ingredients

3 c. water
1 1/2 lb. beef shank
1 medium onion, diced
2 carrots, diced
2 stalks celery with tops, sliced
1 (14 1/2 oz.) can tomatoes
2 tsp. salt
1 (10 oz.) pkg. frozen mixed vegetables
1/2 c. shredded cabbage
1 Tbsp. dried basil
1 clove garlic, minced
1/2 c. vermicelli or 1 (16 oz.) can garbanzo beans
1 tsp. oregano
1 zucchini, sliced

Preparation

Place all ingredients in crock-pot, except zucchini.
Stir to mix thoroughly.
Cover and cook on low 10 to 16 hours (high for 4 to 6 hours).
During last hour, remove meat and bones.
Cut meat from bones and return to soup with zucchini.
Turn crock-pot to high; cook 1 hour.
Ladle into bowls; sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
Serve with crusty French bread.