The Dog House

Doggestrone

This is a wonderfully, rich, flavorful version of minestrone. This recipe is enough to feed a crowd!

1 lb. hot dogs or sausages or kilbasa, chunked
2 cloves garlic
1 cup chopped onions
2 cups sliced mushrooms
2 15-oz. cans Italian plum tomatoes
2 cups diced potatoes
1 cup green beans (frozen or fresh)
1 cup diced carrots
1 cup diced zucchini
2 cups chopped cabbage
2 15-oz. cans dark red kidney beans, including juice
1 cup macaroni or interesting-shaped pasta
8 cups beef or chicken or vegetable stock
1 bay leaf
½ cup chopped fresh Italian parsley
salt and pepper to taste

In a skillet, gently saute the hot dogs, garlic, onions, and mushroom in a little olive oil until they just begin to brown. (Be careful of your heat--olive oil burns easily!) In a bowl, carefully chop the tomatoes, being sure to reserve the juice. (Also be sure not to get squirted!) Add everything except the pasta and parsley to a large soup or stock pot. Cover pot and bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally.

Reduce heat and simmer until vegetables are almost completely cooked, about 20 minutes. Add pasta and parsley and cook a few minutes longer until pasta is cooked al dente. Salt and pepper to taste.