Brandy's Zuppa Toscana

Zuppa Toscana Soup (like Olive Garden's) - Brandy H.

• 1 lb ground Italian sausage
• 1-1/2 tsp crushed red peppers
• 1 large diced white onion
• 4 tbsp bacon pieces
• 2 tsp garlic puree
• 10 cups water
• 5 cubes chicken bouillon
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 lb sliced Russet potatoes (about 3 large potatoes)
• 1/4 bunch of kale

Sauté sausage and crushed red pepper in pot.  Drain excess fat, refrigerate while you prepare other ingredients.  In same pan, sauté bacon, onions and garlic for about 15 minutes or until onions are soft.  Mix together water and chicken bouillon, then add it to the onions, bacon and garlic.  Cook until boiling.  Add potatoes and cook until soft, about 30 minutes.  Add heavy cream and cook until thoroughly heated.  Stir in sausage.  Add kale just before serving.