Kielbasa and Cabbage Soup Recipe

Kielbasa and Cabbage Soup is a hearty, comforting dish that combines savory kielbasa sausage, tender cabbage, and a medley of vegetables in a flavorful broth. This recipe offers a delicious and filling meal that’s perfect for cooler weather or when you’re in the mood for something satisfying yet simple to make. The smoky flavor of the kielbasa pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the cabbage and carrots, creating a deliciously balanced soup that will warm you from the inside out.

This soup is not only comforting but also incredibly easy to prepare. With just a few basic ingredients and about 50 minutes of cook time, you can enjoy a flavorful and filling meal that the whole family will love. The ingredients are affordable and easy to find, making this dish an ideal option for weeknight dinners. Plus, it’s one of those soups that tastes even better the next day, making leftovers a treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Hearty and Filling

The kielbasa sausage and vegetables create a hearty soup that’s both satisfying and nutritious, perfect for lunch or dinner.

2. Quick and Easy to Make

With just 10 minutes of prep time and 40 minutes of cooking time, this soup comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights.

3. Affordable Ingredients

Made with simple, everyday ingredients like kielbasa, cabbage, carrots, and chicken broth, this recipe won’t break the bank.

4. One-Pot Meal

Everything is cooked in one pot, which makes cleanup easy and efficient while still delivering a full, flavorful meal.

5. Flavorful and Versatile

The combination of kielbasa and vegetables provides a rich flavor profile that can be adjusted with spices and seasonings to suit your taste preferences.

Ingredients

• Kielbasa sausage (sliced)
• Onion (chopped)
• Garlic (minced)
• Cabbage (chopped)
• Carrots (sliced)
• Chicken broth
• Canned diced tomatoes
• Paprika
• Salt and pepper

Variations

• Add Potatoes: For an even heartier soup, consider adding diced potatoes to the pot. They’ll absorb the flavors of the broth and make the soup even more filling.
• Add Greens: You can add spinach, kale, or collard greens for extra nutrition and color. Just stir them in during the last few minutes of cooking.
• Spicy Kielbasa: If you prefer a bit of heat, try using spicy kielbasa sausage or adding a pinch of red pepper flakes.
• Vegetarian Version: Replace the kielbasa with plant-based sausage or skip the sausage altogether for a lighter, vegetarian-friendly version of the soup.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Kielbasa

In a large pot, cook the sliced kielbasa over medium heat until it’s browned and crispy on the edges. This will bring out the savory flavor of the sausage.

Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic

Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot with the kielbasa. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.

Step 3: Add Vegetables and Broth

Stir in the chopped cabbage, sliced carrots, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring the soup to a boil over medium-high heat.

Step 4: Simmer

Once the soup is boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 25-30 minutes. The vegetables should become tender and the flavors well combined.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh herbs or a dollop of sour cream if desired. It’s a perfect dish for warming up on a chilly day.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Don’t Overcook the Cabbage: Cabbage cooks down quickly, so make sure not to overcook it to avoid a mushy texture. Simmer it just until tender.
• Adjust the Seasoning: Feel free to adjust the paprika, salt, and pepper to your liking. You can also add a bay leaf or thyme for extra depth of flavor.
• Use High-Quality Kielbasa: The quality of the kielbasa will significantly impact the flavor of the soup. Try to use a good-quality kielbasa for the best results.
• Serve with Bread: This soup is delicious when served with crusty bread on the side for dipping.

How to Serve

Kielbasa and Cabbage Soup can be served on its own as a satisfying meal, or with a side of warm, crusty bread to soak up the flavorful broth. For extra richness, top each bowl with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of shredded cheese. Pair with a light salad or pickled vegetables for a well-rounded meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This soup keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store it in an airtight container and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.

Freezing

You can freeze Kielbasa and Cabbage Soup for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove.

Reheating

To reheat, simply warm the soup on the stovetop over medium heat until it’s hot, adding a splash of broth or water if it’s too thick. You can also reheat individual servings in the microwave.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of sausage?

Yes! If you don’t have kielbasa, you can substitute with smoked sausage, bratwurst, or even chicken sausage for a lighter option.

2. Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, this soup can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. It often tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld.

3. How do I make the soup spicier?

For a spicier version, you can use spicy kielbasa, add red pepper flakes, or stir in a bit of hot sauce during cooking.

4. Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, celery, or zucchini to suit your taste or use up what you have on hand.

5. Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?

Yes, you can substitute vegetable broth for a vegetarian version of the soup.

6. Can I use frozen cabbage?

Fresh cabbage is recommended for this recipe, but if you only have frozen cabbage, you can still use it. Just be sure to thaw and drain it before adding it to the soup.

7. How do I make the soup richer?

For a richer flavor, you can add a splash of cream or a pat of butter towards the end of cooking.

8. Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes! Brown the kielbasa, onion, and garlic in a pan, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

9. Can I add potatoes to the soup?

Yes, diced potatoes are a great addition to this soup and will make it even heartier. Add them with the other vegetables and adjust the cooking time as needed.

10. Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes, you can make a vegetarian version by omitting the kielbasa and using plant-based sausage or just adding extra vegetables to the soup.

Conclusion

Kielbasa and Cabbage Soup is a warming, comforting, and delicious dish that’s perfect for cozy nights in. With simple ingredients and a straightforward cooking process, it’s a perfect option for weeknight dinners or meal prep. Whether you’re feeding a family or looking for a satisfying bowl to enjoy, this soup delivers on both flavor and heartiness. Enjoy this classic recipe as it is, or experiment with your favorite additions to make it your own!

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