HOT SOUP: This soup is my personal favourite, not only because it is delicious and hearty, but because the recipe is simple & easy to follow and fool-proof.

ITALIAN BEAN SOUP:

8 to 10 cups chicken stock--see recipe                       

4 to 5 mild Italian sausage

2 cups kidney beans                                                   

1 cup navy beans

1 onion, finely chopped                                             

1 garlic clove, finely chopped

1 celery stalk, finely chopped                                     

2 carrots, chopped

4 large ripe tomatoes, chopped                                   

4 slices lean bacon

3 to 4 tsp. tomato paste                                               

1/2 to 1 tsp. red pepper powder

2 tbsp. butter

salt and pepper

Soak beans in enough water to cover overnight, drain and set aside.  Cook sausages and cut into chunks.

In a large heavy saucepan, melt butter over medium heat and sauté bacon for 5 minutes. Add all the vegetables, except tomatoes, and cook until slightly brown. Add tomatoes, beans and chicken stock. Cover saucepan and bring mixture to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour or until beans are tender. Add cooked sausages, tomato paste and red pepper powder to taste and cook 15 minutes more. Add salt & pepper, then taste and adjust seasoning.

Serve in heated bowls.