Recipe: Quick Country Cupboard Soup

Quick Country Cupboard Soup
Source: Kat B
Makes 6 servings

A family favorite recipe that is very quick, when time is short and leftovers are plenty. This may also be made in a slow cooker. I like to add zucchini, peas, corn or any leftover "soup friendly" veggie.

1/2 pound cooked pork, beef or chicken
1 teaspoon vegetable oil
1 cup thinly sliced carrots
1 cup thinly sliced potatoes
1 (1.8 ounce) package dry onion soup mix
2 tablespoons sugar
4 cups water
1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes, undrained
1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 dash hot pepper sauce, optional
1/2 cup small pasta
ground black pepper

In a large stock pot, heat oil over medium heat; add meat and brown lightly. Stir in carrots, potatoes, onion soup mix, sugar, water, tomatoes, Italian seasoning, hot pepper sauce, and pepper. Stir frequently. Bring to a boil , add pasta and reduce heat. Simmer gently for 30 to 40 minutes or until vegetables are tender.