Pot Kielbasa Cabbage Potato Soup is a hearty, comforting dish perfect for chilly days. The combination of smoky kielbasa sausage, tender potatoes, and sweet cabbage simmered in a savory broth makes this soup an ideal choice for those who want something satisfying and full of flavor. It’s simple to prepare, budget-friendly, and the perfect option for a cozy family meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound kielbasa sausage (sliced into ½-inch pieces)
- 4 cups cabbage (roughly chopped)
- 4 medium potatoes (peeled and diced into bite-sized cubes)
- 1 medium onion (diced)
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- 2 cups water
- 2 medium carrots (sliced)
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil (or butter)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Ingredients:
- Slice the kielbasa: Cut the kielbasa into ½-inch thick rounds.
- Chop the vegetables: Dice the potatoes, roughly chop the cabbage, dice the onion, and slice the carrots. Mince the garlic.
2. Brown the Kielbasa:
- Heat olive oil: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil (or butter) over medium heat.
- Cook the kielbasa: Add the sliced kielbasa and cook until browned on both sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the kielbasa from the pot and set it aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
- Cook the onions and garlic: In the same pot with the rendered fat from the kielbasa, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onion is soft and translucent.
- Add the carrots: Stir in the sliced carrots and cook for another 2 minutes.
4. Add the Potatoes and Cabbage:
- Toss in the potatoes and cabbage: Add the diced potatoes and chopped cabbage to the pot. Stir to combine with the other vegetables.
5. Add the Broth and Seasonings:
- Pour in the broth and water: Add 4 cups of chicken broth and 2 cups of water to the pot. Stir well.
- Add seasonings: Stir in the smoked paprika, dried thyme, bay leaves, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.
6. Simmer the Soup:
- Reduce heat: Once the soup is boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot.
- Simmer: Let the soup simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes and cabbage are tender.
7. Add the Kielbasa Back:
- Return the kielbasa to the pot: Once the vegetables are cooked, add the browned kielbasa back to the soup and let it heat through for another 5 minutes.
8. Serve and Garnish:
- Taste and adjust seasoning: Taste the soup and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
- Garnish: Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh parsley, if desired.
Tips for Success:
- Use Yukon Gold or Red Potatoes: These types of potatoes hold their shape better than Russets in soups and will remain creamy without falling apart.
- Add a touch of acidity: For a little tang, add a splash of apple cider vinegar or squeeze fresh lemon juice just before serving.
- Optional veggies: You can also add celery, green beans, or peas for extra veggies and texture.
Pot Kielbasa Cabbage Potato Soup is a comforting, satisfying meal that brings together simple ingredients in the most delicious way. The smokiness of the kielbasa pairs perfectly with the mild sweetness of the cabbage and the heartiness of the potatoes, creating a flavorful soup that’s perfect for any occasion. Easy to make and even better as leftovers, this is a recipe you’ll want to keep in your rotation all season long!
