- Add bacon grease to a large pot over medium high heat.  When heated, add first 4 ingredients and cook for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are soft and the volume has been reduced by one half. 
- Add remaining ingredients, except tortellini, cover and bring to a boil. 
- Remove cover and stir.  Add tortelloni.  Reduce heat to medium and cover. 
- Cook covered, stirring occasionally, for 15 minutes, or tortelloni is cooked through and rises to the top.