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Experience a hearty bowl of tangy comfort with this take on the traditional Polish favorite, kapusniak soup. Cabbage and sauerkraut bring plenty of bright, briny flavor, while smoky sausage and simple vegetables create a cozy dish that’s ready to warm you from the inside out.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons butter or olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 8 ounces smoked sausage, half-moons
- 2 cups sauerkraut, drained (reserve juice)
- 2 cups shredded cabbage
- 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon caraway seeds (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
Begin by warming the butter or olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, chopped carrots, and sliced celery, and cook them until they start to soften and become fragrant, about five minutes.
Next, stir in the smoked sausage, letting the slices brown lightly before adding in the sauerkraut and shredded cabbage. If you’ve reserved any sauerkraut juice, pour some in now for extra tang, adjusting to your taste. Toss in the caraway seeds if you like a bit of traditional flavor. Pour in the broth, bring everything to a gentle simmer, and then reduce the heat.
Cover the pot and let the soup bubble away for 20–25 minutes, allowing the cabbage to become tender and the flavors to meld. Season generously with salt and pepper, and give it a quick taste to see if you’d like a little more sauerkraut juice for added zip.
Finally, ladle this aromatic soup into bowls, and if you’re feeling indulgent, top it with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh dill or parsley for a burst of color.
Kapusniak soup is a crowd-pleasing delight, perfect for anyone craving a cozy meal packed with traditional flavors. If you’re watching your sodium intake or prefer a lighter dish, choose reduced-salt broth and switch the smoked sausage for turkey sausage or lean ham. You can always experiment by adding potatoes, a few cloves of garlic, or even mushrooms for a meaty vegetarian version. It’s a versatile recipe that can adapt to different tastes and dietary needs—so gather your ingredients, simmer up a pot, and enjoy this savory, soul-warming bowl of comfort.
