Ingredients:

  Amount  Measure       Ingredient -- Preparation Method
--------  ------------  --------------------------------
   1      slice         canadian bacon
   1                    carrot -- finely chopped
   1                    celery stalk -- finely chopped
   1                    onion -- finely chopped
   1      clove         garlic -- minced
   8                    fresh basil leaves
   1      28 oz can     plum tomatoes
   6                    potatoes -- cubed
   1      pound         italian turkey sausage -- cut into 2" pieces
                        salt
                        pepper
                        fresh parsley or basil garnish

Preparation:

Fry bacon in a large non-stick saucepan until crisp. Add carrot, celery, onion, garlic and basil. Saute in pan drippings (or use braise/deglaze method) until onion is lightly browned. Add tomatoes, potatoes and sausage. Bring to a boil; reduce heat to low. Simmer for 1 hour, stirring occasionally, adding water for desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste. May also add cubed zucchini, yellow squash, or more potatoes. Serve garnished with chopped fresh parsley or more basil. For Crockpot: After browning step, put in crockpot with remaining ingredients and cook for 8 or 9 hours. Serve with a crusty bread.