Kielbasa and Sauerkraut Soup

## Directions

### Step 1: Brown the Kielbasa
1. **Cook the kielbasa**: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced kielbasa and cook, stirring occasionally, until the sausage is browned and crispy around the edges. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Once browned, remove the kielbasa from the pot and set it aside.

2. **Render some fat**: If the kielbasa has released a lot of fat during cooking, you can drain off some of it, leaving about 1-2 tablespoons of fat in the pot for the next steps.

### Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
1. **Sauté the onion and garlic**: In the same pot, add another tablespoon of olive oil if needed. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute, or until fragrant.

2. **Add the potatoes**: Stir in the diced potatoes, allowing them to cook for 2-3 minutes to absorb the flavors from the onion and garlic.

### Step 3: Add the Broth and Sauerkraut
1. **Add the broth and water**: Pour in the chicken broth and water, bringing the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer.

2. **Add the sauerkraut**: Stir in the drained sauerkraut, making sure it’s well-distributed. This will infuse the soup with its tangy flavor, while also softening the texture as it cooks.

3. **Season the soup**: Add the caraway seeds (if using), thyme, bay leaf, smoked paprika (if using), and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. The smoked paprika is optional, but it adds a subtle depth and smokiness that complements the kielbasa beautifully.

### Step 4: Simmer the Soup
1. **Simmer the soup**: Allow the soup to simmer uncovered for about 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. Stir occasionally to make sure the potatoes cook evenly and the flavors meld together.

2. **Add the kielbasa back in**: Once the potatoes are soft, return the browned kielbasa to the pot, stirring to combine. Let the soup simmer for another 5-10 minutes to heat the kielbasa through and infuse the soup with its smoky flavor.

### Step 5: Taste and Adjust
1. **Taste the soup**: Before serving, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. You may want to add a little more salt, pepper, or thyme to enhance the flavor.

2. **Remove the bay leaf**: Don’t forget to remove the bay leaf before serving!

### Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
1. **Serve the soup**: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

2. **Optional topping**: For extra creaminess, serve the soup with a dollop of sour cream on top. This balances out the tanginess of the sauerkraut and adds richness to the dish.

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## Tips for the Best Kielbasa and Sauerkraut Soup:

– **Use quality kielbasa**: The flavor of the kielbasa really shines in this soup, so choose a high-quality sausage with plenty of flavor. Look for kielbasa made with a blend of pork and beef, or opt for a smoked version for a richer taste.
– **Customize the sauerkraut**: Sauerkraut can vary in tanginess, so feel free to adjust the amount you use depending on your preference. If you prefer a milder flavor, rinse the sauerkraut in cold water before adding it to the soup to remove some of the acidity.
– **Add vegetables**: While the recipe calls for potatoes, you can easily customize the soup with other vegetables. Carrots, celery, or parsnips make a great addition.
– **Use bone broth**: For a richer, heartier flavor, try using bone broth instead of regular chicken broth. It adds an extra depth of flavor that pairs well with the smoky kielbasa.
– **Simmer longer for deeper flavor**: If you have the time, let the soup simmer for a longer period (up to 1 hour). The flavors will deepen and become even more delicious as they meld together.
– **Make it a one-pot meal**: Kielbasa and sauerkraut soup is a complete meal in itself, but if you want to serve it with sides, consider crusty bread or a simple salad.

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### Conclusion

Kielbasa and Sauerkraut Soup is the perfect blend of smoky, savory, and tangy flavors, making it an ideal dish for chilly nights or a filling weeknight meal. With its easy-to-follow ingredients and steps, it’s a comforting soup that can be enjoyed by everyone, whether you’re familiar with Polish cuisine or just looking to try something new. Whether served with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh parsley, this hearty soup will become a staple in your recipe repertoire.

So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy a steaming bowl of this flavorful, satisfying soup that’s sure to warm both your body and soul.