Smoked meat soup

Here's a flavorful smoked meat soup recipe that's hearty and satisfying:

Ingredients:

• 1 pound smoked meat (such as smoked pork, ham hocks, or smoked sausage), diced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes (with juice)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup potatoes, diced (optional)
• 1 cup frozen peas or corn (optional)
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Sauté Vegetables: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.

2. Add Smoked Meat: Stir in the diced smoked meat and cook for a few minutes to release the flavors.

3. Add Broth and Seasoning: Pour in the broth, diced tomatoes (with juice), thyme, bay leaf, and diced potatoes (if using). Bring the mixture to a boil.

4. Simmer: Reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for about 20-30 minutes until the vegetables are tender and the flavors meld.

5. Add Peas or Corn: If using, stir in the frozen peas or corn and cook for an additional 5 minutes.

6. Season: Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper.

7. Serve: Remove the bay leaf and ladle the soup into bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Enjoy your smoky, hearty soup!