Winter Root Sausage Stew

1 large potato, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch cubes
1 large sweet potato, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch cubes 
2 medium carrots, peeled and coarsely chopped
1 medium parsnip, peeled and coarsely chopped
1 medium onion, finely chopped
1 lb smoked sausage, sliced
1 can pasta-style stewed tomatoes, with juice
1 1/2 cups chicken stock 
2 tsp granulated sugar
1/2 tsp thyme
1/4 tsp black pepper

In slow cooker, combine potato, sweet potato, carrots, parsnip, onion, sausages, tomatoes (which juice), chicken stock, sugar, thyme, and pepper; stir to mix well. Cover and cook on low for 7 to 9 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours, until vegetables are tender.

Submitted by: Lia McClanahan