Description
This hearty Kielbasa and Cabbage Soup is a comforting, flavorful dish made by simmering smoked kielbasa with cabbage, potatoes, carrots, and tomatoes in a rich broth. Enhanced with garlic, onions, and optional smoked paprika, this soup is perfect for a cozy meal and easy to prepare in under an hour.
Ingredients
Scale
Sausage
- 1 lb kielbasa sausage, sliced into rounds
Vegetables
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups green cabbage, chopped
- 3 large carrots, sliced
- 3 medium potatoes, diced
Liquids and Canned Goods
- 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juice
Spices and Seasonings
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional for a smoky flavor)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Brown the Kielbasa: In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the sliced kielbasa over medium heat until it’s nicely browned to release flavorful oils. Remove the kielbasa from the pot and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables: Using the same pot, add the diced onion and cook over medium heat until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add Vegetables and Broth: Stir in the chopped cabbage, sliced carrots, diced potatoes, diced tomatoes with juice, bay leaf, and smoked paprika if using. Mix well to combine everything evenly.
- Simmer the Soup: Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, stir to combine, and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 25-30 minutes until the potatoes and carrots are tender.
- Add Kielbasa and Seasonings: Return the browned kielbasa to the pot and stir. Season the soup with salt and pepper to your taste, and let it heat through for a few minutes to meld the flavors.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the bay leaf and sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley before serving the soup hot, perfect for a comforting meal.
Notes
- You can substitute kielbasa with smoked sausage or bratwurst if preferred.
- Using vegetable broth makes this soup suitable for vegetarians if you replace kielbasa with a plant-based sausage alternative.
- Adjust smoked paprika quantity according to your taste preference for smokiness.
- Leftovers store well in the fridge for up to 4 days and can be frozen for longer storage.
- Adding a splash of apple cider vinegar before serving can brighten the flavors if desired.
