Kielbasa and Cabbage Soup

Introduction

Oh my goodness, when I made this Kielbasa and Cabbage Soup for my family dinner last night, I wasn’t expecting the ecstatic reaction I got from my husband! He couldn’t stop raving about how delicious and comforting this soup was, and my kids couldn’t get enough either. It was such a heartwarming moment to see everyone enjoy a simple meal so much. The combination of savory kielbasa, tender cabbage, and rich broth made this soup a perfect meal for the chilly evening. It’s a classic comfort food that’s easy to make, filling, and packed with flavor. This recipe will definitely be a regular in our family meal rotation!

Ingredients

• 1 lb kielbasa, sliced
• 1 small head of cabbage, chopped
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
• 1 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Kielbasa

1. In a large pot, heat the kielbasa over medium heat until it starts to brown slightly. Stir occasionally to ensure it cooks evenly. The slight browning brings out a rich flavor in the sausage, adding depth to the soup.

Step 2: Add the Onion and Garlic

1. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot with the kielbasa. Stir and cook until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic becomes fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. This builds a savory base for the soup.

Step 3: Stir in the Cabbage

1. Add the chopped cabbage to the pot, stirring until it begins to wilt down. Cabbage will shrink significantly as it cooks, so don’t worry if it looks like a lot at first.

Step 4: Pour in the Broth and Tomatoes

1. Add the chicken broth and canned diced tomatoes (with their juice) to the pot. Stir everything together, ensuring the cabbage is evenly distributed.

Step 5: Season the Soup

1. Season the soup with paprika, salt, and pepper. Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences. The paprika adds a subtle smokiness that complements the kielbasa perfectly.

Step 6: Simmer

1. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 20-30 minutes. This allows all the flavors to meld together and gives the cabbage plenty of time to soften.

Step 7: Serve

1. Once the soup is done simmering, taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Ladle the soup into bowls, serve hot, and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 6
• Calories per serving: 290
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 5g
• Protein: 16g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Cholesterol: 40mg

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

How to Serve

• As a Main Dish: Serve this hearty soup with a side of crusty bread for a complete meal. The rich broth and smoky kielbasa will make you feel warm and satisfied.
• Garnish: Top the soup with fresh herbs, such as parsley or thyme, for an added pop of color and freshness.
• Toppings: A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of grated cheese (such as cheddar or Parmesan) will add an extra layer of richness to the soup.
• With a Salad: Pair it with a light side salad, such as a simple green salad with vinaigrette, to balance the richness of the soup.

Additional Tips

1. Use High-Quality Kielbasa: The flavor of the kielbasa can really make or break this soup. Opt for a good-quality kielbasa from a butcher or a reputable brand for the best results.
2. Adjust the Texture: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can blend a portion of the soup or add some mashed potatoes to it. If you like a brothier soup, you can add more chicken broth to adjust the consistency.
3. Spice It Up: For a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to the soup when you add the garlic and onion.
4. Vary the Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables such as carrots or celery to the mix for added flavor and texture. These can be added along with the cabbage.
5. Leftovers: This soup keeps well in the fridge for several days, and the flavors continue to deepen, making it even better the next day.

Recipe Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Replace the kielbasa with vegetarian sausage or simply omit it for a vegetarian version of this soup. Add more beans or lentils for protein.
• Spicy Kielbasa: Use spicy kielbasa if you prefer a bit of heat in your soup. You can also add hot sauce to taste.
• Add Beans: For a heartier soup, consider adding some white beans or kidney beans. They’ll complement the cabbage and kielbasa beautifully.
• Slow Cooker Option: For an easier version, you can throw all the ingredients into a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours until the vegetables are tender.

Serving Suggestions

• With Crusty Bread: Serve with a slice of warm, crusty bread for dipping in the broth.
• With a Side of Rice: Serve over cooked rice for an added base to make the meal even more filling.
• Pair with Beer or Wine: This soup pairs nicely with a light lager or an amber ale. If you prefer wine, try a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light red like Pinot Noir.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The soup can be reheated on the stove over low heat, adding more broth if necessary.
• Freezing: This soup freezes well. Let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and heat on the stove.
• Reheating: When reheating from frozen, be sure to stir occasionally to ensure it heats evenly. Add extra chicken broth or water if the soup becomes too thick during reheating.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use smoked sausage instead of kielbasa?
   Yes, smoked sausage is a great substitute for kielbasa and will add a similar smoky flavor to the soup.
2. Can I make this soup ahead of time?
   Absolutely! This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld. Just store it in the fridge and reheat when you’re ready to serve.
3. Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?
   Yes, you can use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version of this soup. It will still be flavorful and hearty.
4. How can I make the soup spicier?
   Add some red pepper flakes, jalapeños, or a dash of hot sauce to give the soup a spicy kick.
5. Can I add potatoes to this soup?
   Yes, potatoes would be a great addition. You can cube them and add them with the cabbage for a heartier texture.
6. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
   Yes, you can. Add all the ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the vegetables are tender.
7. Can I add other vegetables?
   Definitely! Carrots, celery, or even green beans can be added for extra texture and flavor.
8. Can I freeze this soup?
   Yes, this soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months.
9. Is this soup spicy?
   The soup is not inherently spicy, but you can add spices like paprika or red pepper flakes to adjust the heat level.
10. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
    Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes. Just make sure to chop them and add them with the chicken broth for a fresh twist.

Conclusion

Kielbasa and Cabbage Soup is a comforting and hearty dish that’s perfect for a cozy dinner or as a part of a larger family meal. The smoky kielbasa, tender cabbage, and flavorful broth come together in a way that is both satisfying and delicious. Whether you make it on the stovetop or in a slow cooker, this soup is a winner every time. With simple ingredients and minimal prep time, it’s a great weeknight dinner that everyone will enjoy. Don’t forget to try it the next day, as the flavors continue to develop, making it even better. Enjoy!

Print