This Tuscan Country Soup is the perfect blend of hearty and comforting flavors, capturing the essence of rustic Italian cooking. It's an ideal choice for a cozy family dinner or a simple, satisfying meal on a chilly evening.
Mild Italian sausage adds a savory depth and just enough spice to keep things interesting. Chicken broth and water form the soup's base, providing a light but flavorful backdrop. Russet potatoes, with their creamy texture, make the soup hearty and filling. Kale not only boosts nutrition but also adds a lovely vibrant color and slight earthy taste. Heavy cream brings everything together with a luscious, velvety finish. Onion and garlic are essential for building that aromatic foundation, while olive oil helps to sauté everything to perfection. A touch of red pepper flakes introduces a subtle kick, and as always, salt and pepper are there to enhance all the flavors.
This soup pairs beautifully with a simple side salad dressed in balsamic vinaigrette. A glass of Chianti or another light red wine complements the flavors well. For a heartier meal, serve alongside a platter of assorted cheeses and olives.
Start by warming up your large pot over medium heat and add the olive oil. Once it’s shimmering, toss in the sausage. Break it up with a wooden spoon so you get nice, bite-sized pieces, cooking until it’s all browned. Next, add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. You’ll know they're ready when the onion turns translucent and the aroma fills your kitchen.
Now, pour in the chicken broth and water. Crank the heat up a bit to bring it to a boil. Once boiling, add your sliced potatoes. Turn the heat down to a simmer and let those potatoes cook until tender, which should take about 15 minutes.
Once the potatoes are soft, stir in the chopped kale and sprinkle in the red pepper flakes. Let it all simmer together for another 5 minutes so the kale wilts nicely.
Finally, reduce the heat to low and gently stir in the heavy cream. Give it a taste and season with salt and pepper as needed. Serve it up steaming hot with some crusty bread on the side.
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