Stuffed Pepper Soup Italian Style (Slow Cooker)

1 pound of ground sausage 

1 1/2 teaspoon of minced ground garlic

1 cup of chopped onion

1 6 ounce can of tomato paste

1 28 ounce can of diced tomatoes with all the juice from the can

3 1/2 cups of chopped green peppers ( use green to add color)

4 1/2 cups of chicken broth (you can use regular or low sodium)

2/3 cup of white or brown rice uncooked

3 tablespoons of packed brown sugar (light or dark)

1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon

In a large pan (skillet) cook ground sausage, garlic and onion over medium heat turning slowly while cooking until browned do not burn.  Once cooked drain any juices that may form from the mixture. Once this is done transfer mixture to a slow cooker.  At this point add all remaining ingredients and stir mixture together slowly.  Cook at low heat for 8-10 hours.  You can add more chicken broth if you feel that it is too thick.

This makes about 6 servings

Cook time is about 8 hours

Note that instead of Sausage you can add 1 pound of ground turkey for a lean soup.

Enjoy with a loaf of Italian bread or a side of white pizza, great for a cold night or Superbowl Sunday!