Sausage and Cabbage Soup

Kielbasa and Cabbage Soup Recipe: A Hearty Comfort Dish

If you’re craving a warming, filling soup packed with savory flavors, this Kielbasa and Cabbage Soup recipe is the answer! This comforting dish features kielbasa sausage, tender vegetables, and a rich broth, making it the perfect meal for any season. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this soup is sure to satisfy. Below, you’ll find the full recipe, including helpful tips to enhance the dish and frequently asked questions to guide you.

Ingredients Needed for Kielbasa and Cabbage Soup

Before you begin, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 pound of kielbasa sausage, cut into circles
• 1 medium-sized onion, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 4 cups of green cabbage, chopped
• 3 large carrots, sliced
• 3 medium-sized potatoes, cut into small pieces
• 6 cups of chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 can of diced tomatoes (14.5 ounces), including the liquid
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for a smoky flavor)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Directions

Brown the Kielbasa

1. Cook the Kielbasa: Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat and cook the kielbasa until it’s browned, about 5-7 minutes. Once browned, remove the sausage from the pot and set it aside.

Sauté the Vegetables

2. Cook the Onion: In the same pot, add a small amount of oil and cook the chopped onion for about 5 minutes, or until it softens.
3. Add the Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, allowing it to become fragrant.

Add the Vegetables and Broth

4. Incorporate the Vegetables: Add the chopped cabbage, sliced carrots, and diced potatoes to the pot.
5. Add Tomatoes and Seasonings: Stir in the canned diced tomatoes with their liquid, along with the bay leaf and smoked paprika (if using).
6. Pour in the Broth: Add the chicken or vegetable broth to the pot, stirring everything together.

Simmer and Cook

7. Bring to a Boil: Bring the soup to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low.
8. Simmer: Cover the pot and let the soup simmer gently for 25-30 minutes, or until the potatoes and carrots are tender.

Finish the Soup

9. Return Kielbasa to the Pot: Add the browned kielbasa back into the pot. Stir to combine and let it cook for another few minutes to heat through.
10. Season and Garnish: Taste the soup and add salt and pepper to your liking. Remove the bay leaf and sprinkle fresh parsley on top before serving.

Tips for Making the Best Kielbasa and Cabbage Soup

• Brown the Sausage: Make sure to brown the kielbasa before adding it to the soup. This brings out the smoky, savory flavors of the sausage and deepens the taste of the broth.
• Fresh Cabbage: Using fresh cabbage is key. It softens nicely and adds a subtle sweetness to the soup.
• Cut Vegetables Evenly: Ensure all the vegetables are cut into uniform pieces so they cook evenly and have a consistent texture.
• Smoked Paprika: If you enjoy a smoky flavor, smoked paprika is the perfect addition. It complements the kielbasa and adds depth to the broth.
• High-Quality Broth: Use a high-quality chicken or vegetable broth for the best flavor. Homemade broth works wonderfully if you have it on hand.
• Simmer Slowly: Let the soup simmer slowly to allow the flavors to meld together. Don’t rush the process!

Frequently Asked Questions about Kielbasa and Cabbage Soup

Can I use turkey sausage instead of kielbasa?
Yes, turkey kielbasa is a great lighter alternative to traditional kielbasa, offering a similar texture and flavor with fewer calories.

Can I freeze this soup?
Absolutely! After it cools completely, you can store the soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Can I cook this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, this soup works well in a slow cooker. Simply add all the ingredients to the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours.

Can I substitute red cabbage for green cabbage?
Yes, red cabbage can be used instead of green cabbage. It will add a slightly different taste and color, but it’s just as delicious!

Can I skip the smoked paprika?
You can absolutely omit the smoked paprika if you prefer a milder flavor. Regular paprika can also be used as a substitute if you still want a bit of smoky taste.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes, you can use vegetable broth and plant-based sausage to create a completely vegetarian version of this soup.

How long does this soup last in the fridge?
This soup will stay fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Store it in an airtight container for the best results.

Can I add beans for more protein?
Yes, adding beans like white beans or kidney beans is an excellent way to boost the protein content of this soup.

Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
Sweet potatoes are a great substitute! They’ll add a slightly sweet flavor and work wonderfully in this soup.

Can I add more vegetables?
Yes! Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or celery. They’ll add extra flavor and texture to the soup.

Can I use a different type of sausage?
Absolutely! You can swap kielbasa for smoked sausage, chorizo, or even chicken sausage. Each will give the soup a unique flavor profile.

How can I make the soup spicier?
To add heat, try incorporating red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or spicy sausage.

What herbs go best with this soup?
Fresh herbs like thyme, dill, or rosemary complement the flavors of this soup beautifully. Add them toward the end of cooking to preserve their fresh taste.

Can I add barley or rice to this soup?
Yes, barley or rice can make the soup heartier. Add them along with the vegetables and increase the broth as needed to accommodate the grains.

Does this soup get thicker as it sits?
Yes, the soup will thicken as it sits, thanks to the starch in the potatoes. If you find it too thick when reheating, simply add more broth.

Can I use canned potatoes instead of fresh?
Canned potatoes can be used, but add them toward the end of cooking since they are already soft.

How should I reheat leftover soup?
Reheat the soup on the stove over low heat. Add extra broth if needed to return it to your desired consistency.

Can I keep the cabbage crispy by adding it later?
Yes, if you prefer a bit of crunch, add the cabbage halfway through the cooking process rather than at the start.

Additional Suggestions to Enhance Your Soup

• Smoked Sausage: Consider using smoked sausage for a more intense smoky flavor.
• Bacon: Add crispy bacon bits for a smoky and savory flavor boost.
• Fresh Herbs: Add fresh parsley or dill right before serving for a burst of freshness.
• Tangy Finish: A splash of apple cider vinegar or lemon juice at the end can balance out the flavors and add a touch of tang.
• Creamy Touch: For a richer texture, stir in a bit of cream or sour cream just before serving.
• Serve with Bread: Enjoy this soup with a slice of crusty bread to soak up all the flavorful broth.

Kielbasa and Cabbage Soup is a fantastic dish that combines smoky sausage, hearty vegetables, and a flavorful broth into one satisfying meal. Whether you’re making it for a family gathering or prepping for the week ahead, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Enjoy!