Couscous Soup with Sausage

 
This soup has wonderful combinations of flavors with the grilled sausage, the jalapeno, mint, cilantro and lemon juice.  We prepare the sausage by simmering them in a saucepan on the stove with a can of beer and water for about 20 minutes.  We then grill the brats because it adds another layer of flavor and texture.  I prepare this for the family quite often.


1 TBSP jalapeno chilies, chopped
1 TBSP olive oil
1/2 tsp ground cumin
2 cloves of garlic, crushed
1 small onion, chopped
1/2 cup, celery, chopped
1 lb. fully cooked bratwurst sausage, cut crosswise into 1/4" slices
6 cups chicken broth
1 box (5.8 oz) roasted garlic and olive oil flavored couscous 
2 TBSP fresh mint, chopped
2 TBSP fresh cilantro, chopped
2 TBSP fresh parsley, chopped
pepper to taste
1 medium tomato, chopped
zest of half a lemon
juice of 1 lemon


Cook chilies, oil, cumin, garlic, onion, celery and sausage in 3-quart saucepan over medium heat, about 8 minutes or until sausage is brown.


Add chicken broth.  Heat to boiling.  Stir in couscous, mint, parsley, cilantro and pepper; reduce heat.  Cover and simmer 5 minutes.  Stir in tomato, lemon juice and zest.  Serve with additional lemon wedges if desired.  Garnish with parsley and finely chopped garlic