Ugly Soup for a sick “boy”

It looks a bit like chunky grey slop, but it tastes like a spoonful of heaven. This soup is mild and hearty, to soothe a body that hasn't eaten for over a day. Simple, fast comfort food.

Sauté a chopped red onion, a few cloves of garlic, ½ t Spanish paprika and 4 crumbled dry sage leaves in olive oil. Add 3 chopped russet potatoes and ¼ of a small kabocha, also chopped. Simmer in 4 cups of stock.

If you’re inclined, add 1 c. (cooked and chopped) lean meat to the simmering veggies – we had roast pork leftovers. Chicken would do nicely as well. Even fish, though I’d add that as last step.

When the taters are tender, stir in 1 cup milk, a pat of butter and a hearty grind of black pepper. The soup is unattractive, but yummy good. A bit bland for my tastes, but perfect for someone getting over the flu. If your tummy can handle it, add a fresh, minced jalapeno to the initial sauté, or spritz your bowl with sriracha.

We're having leftovers for brunch today.