Portuguese Style Kale Soup

Nothing says I love/like/tolerate you like a heaping bowl of soupy goodness in the winter. I've been using this recipe, from Prevention Magazine, for about 10 years now. Healthy and delicious - yumma yumma yumma. I actually went out on a limb today, as I only had 4 potatoes, and used a half a can of white beans to blend with some of the broth - to outstanding results. More fibre = v.v. good.  

Italian sausages - about 5 or so, bring to boil in a pot, simmer for 15 mins or so, cool, remove casings. (I generally prepare my 'snossies' this way, resulting in a lower fat content). So fortch to have a local Nesters, where they make their own.  
1 tbsp olive oil  
2 med onions, chopped  
5 cloves garlic, chopped  
6 large potatoes (russets work fine), chopped  
1 bay leaf  
7 cups chicken stock  
generous pinch hot pepper flakes  
a huge bunch of kale (1-2 bunches), stems removed, washed, torn  
black pepper  

In a large stock pot, heat olive oil over med heat. Add onions, cook until soft - approx. 10 minutes. Stir in garlic, saute for 1 minute. Add potatoes, bay leaf, stock and red pepper flakes. Bring to a boil, then simmer until potatoes are soft - about 30 minutes. I add the kale about half-way through this process. When potatoes are done, remove some , along with stock, and process in blender until smooth (this ensures a thick stock), then return to pot. Stir in cooked sausages, cook a few minutes more. Season to taste.