Kielbasa and Sauerkraut Soup

Introduction

I recently decided to make a warm, comforting bowl of Kielbasa and Sauerkraut Soup for my family, and it turned out to be an absolute hit. The blend of savory kielbasa sausage, tender vegetables, and rich broth creates a perfect balance of flavors. This hearty soup is not only filling but also full of nutrients, thanks to the cabbage, carrots, and potatoes. What I love most about this recipe is how simple it is to prepare, yet it’s so flavorful and satisfying. My family couldn’t stop raving about how delicious it was, and it became a new favorite in our household.

This Kielbasa and Sauerkraut Soup is ideal for those chilly nights when you want something that will warm you up from the inside out. The sausage adds a savory depth to the soup, while the cabbage gives it a touch of sweetness, making it an incredibly satisfying meal. Plus, it’s easy to make and perfect for feeding a crowd. Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight dinner or a meal to impress guests, this soup is a perfect choice.

Ingredients

• 1 lb kielbasa sausage, sliced into rounds
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups green cabbage, chopped
• 3 large carrots, sliced
• 3 medium potatoes, diced
• 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juice
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional for a smoky flavor)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Brown the Kielbasa:
   In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the sliced kielbasa over medium heat until it’s browned. Once browned, remove the kielbasa from the pot and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
   In the same pot, add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add Vegetables and Broth:
   Add the chopped cabbage, sliced carrots, diced potatoes, diced tomatoes with juice, and the bay leaf to the pot. Stir to combine. If you’re using smoked paprika for a smoky flavor, add it now.
4. Simmer the Soup:
   Pour in the broth and stir everything together. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the potatoes and carrots are tender.
5. Add Kielbasa and Seasonings:
   Return the browned kielbasa to the pot and stir to combine. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Let the soup heat through for a few minutes.
6. Garnish and Serve:
   Remove the bay leaf from the soup and discard it. Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot. Enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 6
• Calories per serving: Approximately 350
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 900mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 34g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 14g
• Cholesterol: 45mg

Preparation Time

• Total Time: 45-50 minutes
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 35-40 minutes

How to Serve

• As a Main Dish: This soup is hearty enough to be served on its own as a satisfying main course. Serve it with a side of crusty bread for dipping.
• Garnished with Fresh Parsley: Add a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley on top for a burst of color and a touch of freshness.
• With a Side Salad: Pair with a simple green salad for a light and refreshing side.
• For a Hearty Meal: Serve with a side of warm cornbread or dinner rolls to complete the meal.

Additional Tips

1. Use Quality Kielbasa: The flavor of the kielbasa plays a big role in the overall taste of the soup. Opt for a high-quality, flavorful kielbasa sausage for the best results.
2. Adjust the Broth: If you prefer a thinner soup, feel free to add more broth. For a thicker consistency, reduce the amount of broth slightly.
3. Vegetarian Version: For a vegetarian version, replace the kielbasa with smoked tofu or tempeh and use vegetable broth.
4. Add Sauerkraut for Extra Flavor: For a more authentic Eastern European flavor, add 1-2 cups of sauerkraut to the soup during the last 10 minutes of simmering.
5. Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some diced jalapeños for a spicy kick if you like a bit of heat in your soup.

Recipe Variations

• Spicy Kielbasa and Sauerkraut Soup: Add sliced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the soup for a spicier version.
• Smoked Paprika Version: For an added smoky flavor, use smoked paprika or a touch of liquid smoke when adding the spices.
• Add Sauerkraut: Stir in a couple of cups of sauerkraut in the last few minutes of cooking for extra tang and flavor.
• Creamy Kielbasa Soup: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk to make the soup creamy and rich.
• Add Greens: Throw in a handful of spinach or kale at the end of cooking to add more greens and nutrients to the soup.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with Bread: Pair this hearty soup with a slice of homemade bread or a crusty baguette to soak up all the flavorful broth.
• For a Party: This soup makes a great addition to a potluck or holiday gathering. It’s easy to make in large batches and will feed a crowd.
• With Cheese: For added richness, top each serving of soup with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of shredded cheese.
• Alongside a Salad: Serve with a fresh garden salad to balance out the richness of the soup.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: This soup freezes very well. Let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply defrost in the fridge overnight and heat it on the stove.
• Storage: Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stove until warmed through.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use turkey kielbasa instead of pork kielbasa?
   Yes, turkey kielbasa can be used as a leaner alternative to pork kielbasa, and it will still add great flavor to the soup.
2. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
   Yes, you can make this soup in a slow cooker. Brown the kielbasa and sauté the vegetables first, then add everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. What can I use instead of smoked paprika?
   If you don’t have smoked paprika, you can use regular paprika or add a dash of liquid smoke for that smoky flavor.
4. How do I make the soup vegetarian?
   Substitute the kielbasa with smoked tofu or tempeh, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to make it vegetarian.
5. Can I add sauerkraut to the soup?
   Yes, adding sauerkraut can enhance the flavor. Stir it in during the last 10 minutes of cooking for a tangy twist.
6. Can I use russet potatoes instead of other varieties?
   Yes, russet potatoes will work, but they can break down more in the soup, creating a thicker texture. Yukon gold or red potatoes hold their shape better.
7. Can I make this soup ahead of time?
   Yes, this soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just refrigerate it and reheat when ready to serve.
8. How do I adjust the saltiness of the soup?
   Since kielbasa and broth can be salty, start by adding a small amount of salt and adjust to taste after the soup has finished cooking.
9. What else can I add to this soup?
   You can add extra vegetables such as parsnips, celery, or bell peppers for added flavor and nutrition.
10. Is this soup gluten-free?
    Yes, this soup is naturally gluten-free as long as you ensure the kielbasa and broth do not contain gluten.

Conclusion

This Kielbasa and Sauerkraut Soup is a comforting, hearty dish that’s perfect for cozy winter nights. With its savory kielbasa, tender vegetables, and rich broth, this soup is sure to warm you up and leave you satisfied. Whether you’re serving it to a crowd, enjoying it for a weeknight dinner, or making a big batch for meal prep, this soup is a delicious and easy-to -make recipe that will quickly become a family favorite. Enjoy it with your favorite bread, add a sprinkle of cheese, and savor the flavors of this perfect winter comfort food!

Print