Creating Hearty Sausage Sweet Potato Kale Soup is straightforward if you follow these steps:

1. Heat Oil: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Cook Sausage: Add the Italian sausage to the pot. Break it apart with a wooden spoon, cooking until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Sauté Vegetables: Add diced onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add Sweet Potatoes: Stir in the cubed sweet potatoes, allowing them to cook for another 2 minutes.
5. Pour in Broth: Add the vegetable or chicken broth and diced tomatoes, along with their juices. Stir to combine.
6. Season the Soup: Incorporate dried thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
7. Simmer: Reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until sweet potatoes are tender.
8. Add Kale: Stir in the chopped kale and simmer for an additional 5 minutes until the kale is wilted.
9. Finish with Vinegar: Remove the pot from heat and stir in the apple cider vinegar for an added depth of flavor.
10. Taste and Adjust: Sample the soup, adjusting salt and pepper as necessary before serving.

These simple steps will guide you in preparing an incredible Hearty Sausage Sweet Potato Kale Soup that your family will adore.