I will be the first to tell you that I am not really one of those crockpot mama's. BUT... During the holidays when there is so much going on, it is more challenging to eat according to your goals. And since making healthy choices for me and my family is always one of my top priorities I like to be prepared.

I LOVE a warm bowl of fragrant soup on a cold fall day! This soup is one of our faves because it is so hearty and bursting with flavor. When I make this and our kids are eating it, I omit the cayenne while cooking, but then I add it into Jeff and I’s bowls individually after I have served the kids. It’s NOT the same without the little bit of spice (unless your 4 years old, then no spice is good spice! lol). My version here is just slightly adapted from the original recipe that my mom found by Maggie Pond on Food and Wine.