Spicy Sausage and Clam Soup

Another cold weather favorite. Start by sauting 1 lb. of spicy bulk sausage until it is browned. Deglaze the pan with 1C dry white wine. Saute 1 medium onion, diced, 8 oz. sliced mushrooms and 1 clove of minced garlic. You can saute them together but we prefer to do the veggies seperate from the meat. Combine the veggies and meat and stir in a can of tomatoes with their juice. Bring to a boil and simmer for 5 min. Add the clam juice and simmer until 5 min before serving. At that time, stir in a can of mince clams. If you simmer the clams too long, they get tough. Sever with a crusty bread and salad, if you wish. This soup is hearty enough to serve with a red wine if you wish, or beer.