Heat a 6-quart Dutch oven over med-high heat. Add Bratwurst and brown, crumbling as it cooks.

Once meat is cooked, remove to a plate.

Add diced vegetables to remaining fat in your Dutch oven. You may need to add a little olive oil to your pan aid in cooking. Add a couple pinches of salt as well.

As vegetables begin to soften add tomatoes, beans, black pepper and broth. Add back your cooked Bratwurst, stir well, add Fresh Thyme and bay leaf.

Allow to cook over medium heat for 20-30 minutes.

Check sweet potatoes for tenderness. If you are freezing some stew for later cook to al dente and then store in freezer safe containers.

If you are serving a larger crowd cook to your liking.