German Potato Soup

German Potato Soup
6 strips bacon, cut in small squares
1 medium onion, chopped
2 heaping tablespoons flour
1 1/2 quarts warm water
5 medium potatoes, chopped
3 carrots, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons parsley
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1 smoked Polish sausage, skin removed (optional)
In a 3-quart cast iron pot or stock pot lightly brown bacon. Add onion and saute. Stir in flour and cook, slowly adding water and stirring constantly.
Add potatoes, carrots, parsley, salt and pepper. Cook covered for 2 minutes. Add sausage, if using. Cook 20 minutes; serve hot.
Serves five to six.
Nutrition values per serving: 292 calories, 14 g fat, 31 g carbohydrates, 4 g fiber, 10 g protein, 32 mg cholesterol, 838 mg sodium.