Kale, White bean and Sausage Soup

Kale, White Bean and Sausage Soup

I got this recipe through the food co-op - the original recipe is here
But of course I made a few changes.

14 oz package of smoked sausage, sliced
1 bunch kale, torn into pieces
1 can canellini, drained and rinsed
1 can pinto beans, drained and rinsed
10 cups water with chicken soup base added to make broth
2 cups carrots diced
1 1/2 cup celery diced
3 tsp minced garlic
1 cup diced onion
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
2 bay leaves
1/4 cup red wine vinegar
2 tbsp olive oil
2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced

In a large soup pot, add the olive oil and sausage.  Cook until the sausage is browned.
Add carrots, celery, onion, garlic, red pepper flakes and bay leaves  Saute until the vegetables just start to get soft (about 7-10 min).  Add the kale and let it cook down.  Add the beans and broth.  Let simmer until flavors are blended. Stir in the red wine vinegar.
My soup was fairly salty so I added a couple potatoes diced to help absorb the salt.  I liked the potatoes in it so probably will add then again.  Could have used a few more - or some pasta too.

Makes about 16 cups.