Comforting Broccoli Soup

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 lb kielbasa or 1 lb smoked ham, in small chunks (I like to use Mr. Sausage from the Co-op's freezer section)
• 4 cloves garlic, chopped
• 1 (14 1/2 ounce) canmuir glen diced tomatoes, including juice
• 1 quart chicken broth
• salt
• pepper
• 1 bunch broccoli, stems peeled and chopped fine,florets chopped (about 1 1/4 lbs)
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes, optional
• 14 cup chopped Italian parsley
• 12 cup grated parmesan cheese

1. In a heavy soup pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat and add the meat chunks.
2. Saute until lightly golden.
3. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the tomatoes and chicken broth, cover, and bring to a boil.
5. Add the broccoli pieces and return to the boil, then lower to simmer and cook, uncovered, 10 minutes or until the broccoli stems are tender.
6. Ladle the soup into warm bowls and add a big pinch of hot pepper flakes if you like.
7. Sprinkle parsley and Parmesan over each bowl and serve immediately.

olive oil, kielbasa, garlic, canmuir glen, chicken broth, salt, pepper, broccoli, red pepper, italian parsley, parmesan cheese

Taken from www.food.com/recipe/comforting-broccoli-soup-27822 (may not work)