Tortellini Soup

Mom got this recipe from Toni Redfern.  This makes a BIG pot of soup!!

2 lbs. italian sausage
2 c. coarsely chopped onions
4 garlic cloves, sliced
12 c. beef broth
1 c. water
1 c. dry red wine (or water)
4 c. chopped, seeded, & peeled tomatoes (I used canned)
2 c. thinly sliced carrots
1 t. oregano leaves
1 t. basil leaves
16 oz. tomato sauce
3 c. sliced zucchini
16 oz. (4 c.) frozen meat/cheese filled tortellini or very small ravioli
6 T. chopped fresh parsley
2 medium green peppers, chopped
grated parmesan cheese

Brown sausage.  Remove sausage & reserve 2 T. of drippings in large stockpot.  Saute onion & garlic until tender.  Add beef broth, water, tomatoes, carrots, basil, oregano, tomato sauce & sausage.  Bring to a boil.  Reduce heat; simmer uncovered for 30 min. (If you want skim any fat from soup at this time).  Stir in zucchini, tortellini, parsley & green pepper.  Simmer covered an additional 35-40 minutes or until tortellini and vegetables are tender.  Sprinkle parmesan cheese on top of each serving.