Linda’s Hot ’n’ Spicy Tomato Soup

My glamorous and charming friend Linda sends along this recipe for what she calls a “Prostate Protector Soup.” As Linda writes: “The symbiosis of basil, olive oil and tomato protects prostate glands. That’s why I created this soup, which we really like. As with many soups, the proportion of ingredients varies with personal preference.” 

Linda’s Hot ’n’ Spicy Tomato Soup:

¾-to-1 lb. lean ground beef
1 large onion, diced
3-to-4  garlic cloves, minced
1 tbsp. dried basil
A large pinch of dried red pepper flakes
2 tsp. granulated sugar
3 tbsp. olive oil 
Two 26-oz. (796-mL) cans diced tomatoes, including juice
Two 5.5-oz. (156 mL) cans tomato paste
1 c. salsa 
1 c. dry red wine (use a little more, if you prefer)
1 c. chicken stock

Linda, in her vegetable garden

In a large pot on medium-high heat, sauté lean ground beef until no pink remains. Reduce heat to medium-low, stirring in onion, garlic, basil, red pepper flakes, and olive oil. Cook until onion is soft and translucent, stirring often. Add tomatoes, tomato paste, salsa, and red wine. Simmer, covered, on low heat for 2 hr. Thin with chicken stock. Serves 8-to-10. 

Break up ground beef. Tip:
Use a potato masher

Add chopped onions ...

And a splash of olive oil ...

A pinch of chili flakes ...

Diced tomatoes with juice ...

Some tomato paste ...

And dry red wine.

Pour in the salsa ...

Give it a stir ...

Patience ...!

Serve!