Russian Potato Soup

This is a yummy, flavorful soup that is great in the winter. Enjoy!

Ingredients

·       1 lb. Spicy Italian Sausage- Looks like hamburger package

·        Approx. 3 large potatoes

·       1/2 pound fresh portabella mushrooms, cut in larger chunks

·       1 cup chopped carrots

·       3 chopped leeks (mostly the lighter area on the bottom) or 1 cup green onions

·       6 cups chicken broth

·       3 tablespoons butter

·       2 tablespoons olive oil

·       1 quart half and half

·       ¼ cup chopped dill (fresh) plus extra for garnish

·       Salt, Pepper, and a little garlic powder to taste

Instructions

1.     Melt 3 tbsp butter in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add the carrots, leeks or green onion and sauté 5-7 minutes.

2.     Add 6 cups chicken broth. Season with salt, pepper, and dill.

3.     Add the chopped potatoes – cover and cook for 15 - 20 minutes. Potatoes should be firm but tender.

4.     In a separate skillet brown sausage and add to soup pot. I pour the grease in for extra flavor but you can drain it for less fat option.

5.     Wipe out pan and add 2 tbsp of olive oil in a large skillet over medium high heat. Add mushrooms and sauté for 3 to 5 minutes until they are lightly browned. Add to soup pot.

6.     Slowly stir half-and-half into the soup and heat.