Sausage and Black Bean Soup

I was feeling sick for several days last week so I changed my meal plan to include a new soup recipe.  For convenience (and due to sheer lack of energy), I wanted to use my slow cooker so I could just throw in a bunch of items and not think about it for eight hours. 


So I looked in my pantry for foods I had on hand and decided to adapt this recipe I found for a black bean and sausage soup.  The original recipe called for andouille sausage which I didn't have.  However, I always have turkey sausage in my freezer.  So I pulled some out along with some pureed veggies for my own healthier and not-as-spicy soup.  I hoped that it would make my cough and stuffy nose go away.  It did help by the way.



I really enjoyed the soup. It reminded me of all the ingredients I use in my chili except this had a broth and lighter texture to it of course.  Since my husband Kirk doesn't really like or eat too many soups, I have tons of it leftover that I froze and will enjoy again in the future.  (Insert wicked, selfish laugh!)



Here is the recipe that I think is worth trying if you enjoy soups, sausage, beans and a combination of them all!






Sausage and Black Bean Soup
(Serves 10-12)

Adapted from Food.com
4 cups of chicken broth, all natural
2 cans (15 oz each) of black beans, drained but not rinsed
1 can (15 oz) light red kidney beans, drained but not rinsed
1 cup of pureed or shredded carrots
1/2 cup of pureed or chopped spinach (optional)
2 stalks of celery, diced
1 onion, diced
1 sweet red pepper, diced
1 can (14 oz) of diced Italian tomatoes, undrained
2 large links (1 lb) of sausage, whatever you like (I use turkey sausage)
1 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp cumin
1/2 tsp crushed bay leaves
salt and pepper - a dash of each



Turn on the heat to your slow cooker as you open up all the cans and your other ingredients.  Combine all ingredients and stir.  Cook on low for 8 to 10 hours or on high for 4 to 6 hours.  Taste and see if you need to add any additional seasonings.  Mine was perfect.   Note: I chose to cook mine on low for about 9 hours.





Does your family enjoy soups?  What is your favorite kind?