Tuscan White Bean Soup

Ingredients

• ¾ lb ground Italian sausage (375 grams) mild or spicy
• 3 large carrots (peeled and sliced)
• 2 ribs celery (sliced)
• 1 medium onion (finely chopped)
• 3 tablespoons tomato paste
• 4 cloves garlic (finely minced)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional — will add spice)
• 5 cups low sodium chicken broth
• 2 cans white kidney beans (540 ml or 19 oz each)
• 2 cups fresh, chopped kale
• ½ cup heavy cream or evaporated milk
• ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan
• 1 teaspoon granulated sugar optional