What i am sharing with you today is an inspired snow storm soup that is nourishing for the mind, body and soul.

 

On a blustery day, in New England, with temperatures dipping just below zero i was in the kitchen organizing what to plan on tonight’s recipe. Initially i wanted to create a casserole type of dish, but then my husband inspired me to make a slow cooked meal. And if you know me at all,  i LOVE my crock-pot. This is where the beauty of the magic began with my simple creation. Although running out of a couple items in my pantry, i just was able to simple tie everything together magically. I must say it came out beautifully. I’m sure my husband would agree with having more than two bowls of this slow cooked soup. This meal was just right for this evenings treat that was packed full of flavor, packed with nutrients and oh SO tasty!

 

Just having a crock-pot in my life saved me more than a few times. It’s a life saving gadget for any home with it’s versatility and easy to use care. A lovely meal created for just two or for a crowd. I’ve utilized many times for hot beverages, snacks or delicious desserts. You can easily set it and forget it. Well almost. Right? I would love to know what is your favorite slow cooked meal to create in your own home? Do tell.

 

With this recipe there is some light prep work, but definitely not overwhelming. I normally enjoy sauteing my veggies in developing the flavors of the soup. Now depending on the recipe i do braise any meat that is utilized as well for the same reasons. Then mostly the rest of the ingredients are placed in pot to slow cook away for deliciousness. My husband usually enjoys some starch and that’s why i have incorporated the pasta aspect and i added the spinach to increase my greens plus i LOVE it. This recipe is not set in stone and you may utilize different beans, veggies or any other add-ins your heart desires. Go ahead and create your own kitchen magic. If you try this, please let me know how it was. I would love to hear!

 

 

 

 

SO let’s scroll down to the recipe.

 

 

 

 

 

SERVES: 6-8

 

 

 

 

INGREDIENTS:

2 tbsp olive oil

1 medium onion, diced

2 carrots, cleaned, peeled and diced

2 celery ribs, cleaned and diced

1 1/2 cup mushrooms, diced

2 garlic cloves, peeled and minced

1-2 tbsp tomato paste

4 cups filtered water

1 package bratwurst sausage, sliced and cooked

1 can chickpeas, rinsed and drained or dried (if dried must be prepared)

1-2 tbsp herbs, preferred (dried or fresh)

bowtie pasta (opt)

handful, spinach, organic (opt)

 

 

 

INSTRUCTIONS:

 

In a medium saucepan, on low-medium heat, heat the oil; combine the onions, carrots, celery and mushrooms together. Let cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until soft and fragrant. Add the garlic; let cook about 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, or until fragrant. Add in the tomato paste and blend well. Let cook well for about another 5 minutes until flavors marry well together.

 

Once complete, remove from the heat. Add to the crock-pot along with the water or broth.

 

With same saucepan, add the sliced sausage and cook until golden brown. Remove from heat and place in the pot. Add in the chickpeas and the preferred herbs and mix well until combined. Cover and cook on either low for 8-10 or high for 3-4 hours.

 

Just before the soup is about ready, this is the time to prepare your pasta; let set aside.

 

When done, place the pasta and spinach to the bottom of the soup bowl. Then add in the soup. Garnish with Parmesan or herbs, etc.

 

 

 

 

 

NUTRITIONAL CONTENT: calories (per serving) 308; total fat 12.9g; cholesterol 16mg; total carbohydrates 36.4g; sugars 7.6g; protein 13.9g; vitamin D 238%; Iron 24%; potassium 16%

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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