Ingredients

3 cans chicken broth
9 cups water
3 -5 pieces bacon
1 lb Italian sausage , loose-ground
4 large russet potatoes , skin-on and cut into bite sized chunks
1 large white onion , finely chopped
3 garlic cloves , crushed
2 tablespoons olive oil
2/3 cup half-and-half
1/2 - 1 1/2 teaspoon salt ( to taste )
1/2 - 1 tablespoon black pepper ( to taste )
1/2 - 1 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
1/2 teaspoon mustard powder , ground
1/4 - 1/2 teaspoon fennel seed , ground ( optional )
2 cups kale leaves , chopped ( optional )
Zuppa Toscana, also known as Tuscan Potato Soup, is a classic Italian soup that originated in Tuscany, Italy. This soup is made with potatoes, sausage, bacon, onions, garlic, and kale, all simmered in a flavorful chicken broth. This soup is hearty, creamy, and rich in flavors, making it a perfect comfort food for a cold winter day. You can serve it as a main course with a side of bread or salad, or as a starter soup for a larger meal. Either way, this soup is sure to warm you up and bring you comfort and satisfaction.

Instructions

1.Fry the bacon pieces in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat for 5-7 minutes, or until crispy, stirring occasionally. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside.
2.Using the same pot, add olive oil, onions, garlic and sausage. Sauté until the sausage is browned and cooked through. Remove the sausage with a slotted spoon and set aside.
3.In the same pot, add chicken broth, water, potatoes, salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, mustard powder, and fennel seed (optional). Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
4.Stir in the cooked sausage and half-and-half. Add kale leaves (optional) and simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the kale is wilted and tender.
5.Taste the soup and add more salt and black pepper if needed.

PROS

This Tuscan Potato Soup is a savory and hearty soup that is loaded with flavors and nutrients.
It’s an easy and comforting recipe that can be made in one pot and is perfect for cold days.

CONS

This soup is high in calories, fat and sodium due to the use of sausage and bacon.
It’s not suitable for people who are on a diet or have health problems that require them to limit their intake of these ingredients.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

This soup is a good source of vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Potatoes are rich in potassium, vitamin C, and vitamin B6, while kale is packed with vitamin K, vitamin A, and antioxidants. Sausage and bacon are high in protein, iron and vitamin B12. However, they should be consumed in moderation as they are also high in sodium and saturated fat, which can increase the risk of heart disease and other health problems.

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