Kielbasa and Cabbage Soup is a classic dish that’s both hearty and comforting. With its rich flavors, tender sausage, and nutritious cabbage, this soup is the perfect meal for a chilly evening or a filling lunch. Kielbasa, a Polish-style sausage, is the star of the show in this recipe, infusing the broth with a savory, smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with the mild sweetness of cabbage. Simple, inexpensive ingredients come together to create a satisfying, one-pot meal that everyone in the family will love. Whether you’re preparing this soup for a cozy dinner or serving it to guests, Kielbasa and Cabbage Soup is sure to be a hit. The beauty of this recipe is in its versatility; it’s easy to customize based on what you have on hand, and it can be made in a variety of ways. Plus, it’s a great option for meal prepping, as it stores well and tastes even better the next day. In this article, we’ll dive into the details of making this delicious soup, explore variations, and offer tips to ensure your Kielbasa and Cabbage Soup is a success every time.
Ingredients
- 1 lb kielbasa sausage (sliced into ½-inch thick rounds)
- 1 medium onion (chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 medium head of cabbage (chopped)
- 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- 2 medium potatoes (peeled and diced)
- 2 medium carrots (sliced)
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for sautéing)
Preparation
Step 1: Sauté the Kielbasa and Vegetables
Start by heating the olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the sliced kielbasa and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the sausage is browned and slightly crispy. This will help release the flavorful oils and smoky essence of the kielbasa into the soup base. After the kielbasa has browned, remove it from the pot and set it aside. In the same pot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for another 3-5 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant. This will build the foundation of flavors for the soup.
Step 2: Add the Broth and Vegetables
Now that the onions and garlic are soft, return the kielbasa to the pot. Add the chicken broth, making sure to scrape the bottom of the pot to release any browned bits from the sausage and onions. These bits add extra flavor to the soup. Then, add the diced potatoes and sliced carrots. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the potatoes and carrots are tender.
Step 3: Add the Cabbage and Herbs
Once the potatoes and carrots are tender, add the chopped cabbage to the pot. The cabbage will seem like a lot at first, but it will cook down significantly as it softens. Stir the cabbage into the soup and add the thyme, oregano, bay leaf, and salt and pepper to taste. Continue to cook the soup on low heat for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cabbage is wilted and tender.
Step 4: Final Seasoning and Taste Test
After the cabbage is tender, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. Depending on the type of broth you used, you may want to add a bit more salt or pepper. If you like a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes. If the soup is too thick, add a bit more broth or water until you reach your desired consistency.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once everything is cooked through and the flavors have melded together, remove the soup from the heat. Serve the Kielbasa and Cabbage Soup hot, garnished with fresh parsley or chives if desired. This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
Variation
This Kielbasa and Cabbage Soup is highly customizable. If you prefer a spicier version, you can add a diced jalapeño or sprinkle in some cayenne pepper for an added kick. For a heartier version, try adding a can of white beans or kidney beans for extra protein and fiber. You can also experiment with different types of sausage, such as smoked sausage or turkey kielbasa, if you want to adjust the flavor or make the recipe lighter. For a vegetarian or vegan option, skip the sausage entirely and use plant-based sausage or simply rely on hearty vegetables and beans for a rich, filling soup.
Cooking Notes
- If you want to prepare the soup ahead of time, it stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be frozen for up to 3 months. The flavors tend to deepen and improve the longer it sits, making it a great meal prep option.
- Be sure to adjust the texture of the soup to your liking by adding more broth if you prefer a thinner consistency, or simmering longer for a thicker, heartier soup.
- Kielbasa can be quite salty, so be mindful when adding extra salt until after you’ve tasted the soup.
Serving Suggestions
This soup is hearty enough to serve as a standalone meal, but if you want to pair it with something else, consider serving it with a warm, rustic loaf of bread or cornbread. A side of sautéed greens, such as spinach or kale, can complement the dish and add extra nutrients. For a lighter option, pair the soup with a fresh green salad topped with a tangy vinaigrette.
Tips
- If you like your cabbage to have a bit of crunch, add it later in the cooking process, around the 10-minute mark, so that it retains some of its texture.
- For a creamy variation, stir in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half right before serving. This will add richness to the soup and smooth out the flavors.
- Kielbasa can be quite fatty, so feel free to remove excess grease from the sausage before adding the broth and vegetables.
Prep Time:
15 minutes
Cooking Time:
45 minutes
Total Time:
1 hour
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 14g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
FAQs
Q: Can I make Kielbasa and Cabbage Soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can! Simply add all the ingredients to the slow cooker, except the cabbage, and cook on low for 6-7 hours. Add the cabbage in the last hour of cooking for best results.
Q: Can I use other types of sausage?
Absolutely! While kielbasa is traditional, you can use smoked sausage, turkey sausage, or even chorizo for a different flavor profile.
Q: Can I make this soup without potatoes?
Yes! If you want a low-carb version, you can omit the potatoes and add extra cabbage or other vegetables like cauliflower for a similar texture.
Q: Can this soup be frozen?
Yes, Kielbasa and Cabbage Soup freezes well. Let the soup cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Q: How do I reheat frozen soup?
To reheat frozen Kielbasa and Cabbage Soup, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, then warm it up on the stovetop over low heat, adding extra broth if necessary.
Conclusion
Kielbasa and Cabbage Soup is a comforting, satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Its smoky kielbasa, tender cabbage, and hearty vegetables come together in a rich, flavorful broth, making it a perfect meal for cold weather or when you’re craving something warm and filling. Easy to make and customize, this soup is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you serve it as a main course or as part of a larger meal, Kielbasa and Cabbage Soup is a recipe that will leave everyone asking for seconds. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s a dish you’ll return to time and time again.