Description of this recipe:
This Sauerkraut Sausage Soup is a comforting and flavorful dish perfect for a chilly day. Combining the tangy zest of sauerkraut with the savory richness of beef kielbasa sausage, this soup delivers a delightful blend of textures and tastes. The addition of hearty vegetables like potatoes, carrots, and celery makes it a complete and satisfying meal.
Why you will love this recipe:
You’ll love this recipe because it’s incredibly easy to make, packed with flavor, and offers a unique twist on traditional soup. The combination of sauerkraut and sausage creates a depth of flavor that is both tangy and savory. It’s also a great way to use up leftover sauerkraut, and the recipe is easily customizable to suit your taste preferences. The hearty vegetables ensure that this soup is filling and nutritious, making it an ideal choice for a family dinner or a cozy weekend meal. Plus, the simple ingredients and straightforward steps mean that anyone, regardless of their cooking experience, can create a delicious and satisfying soup.
Ingredients:
- 4 Russet potatoes, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 large carrots, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 4 celery stalks, chopped into small pieces
- 4 cups sauerkraut, finely chopped (undrained)
- 2 Johnsonville Beef Kielbasa sausages, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 stick (1/2 cup) salted butter
- 1 TBS onion salt (or 1/2 cup chopped onion)
- 1 TBS dried thyme
- 2 TBS brown sugar
- Smoked black pepper, to taste (optional)
Preparation:
This Sauerkraut Sausage Soup is a culinary journey that starts with sautéing vibrant vegetables in rich butter, infusing them with aromatic seasonings. The process is simple, but the result is a depth of flavor that will warm your soul. Follow these steps for a delicious pot of soup:
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, melt the stick of salted butter over medium heat. Add the chopped potatoes, carrots, and celery to the pot. Sauté the vegetables for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften slightly. This step is crucial as it helps to release the natural sweetness of the vegetables and infuse them with the buttery flavor.
Step 2: Add Seasonings
Sprinkle the onion salt (or chopped onion if using) and dried thyme over the sautéed vegetables. Stir well to ensure the seasonings are evenly distributed. Continue to sauté for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the spices to bloom and release their aromatic oils. This step adds depth and complexity to the overall flavor profile of the soup.
Step 3: Incorporate Broth and Sauerkraut
Pour the 6 cups of chicken broth into the pot, ensuring that the vegetables are fully submerged. Add the 4 cups of finely chopped sauerkraut, along with its juice, to the pot. There’s no need to drain the sauerkraut, as its natural juices add to the soup’s tangy flavor. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
Step 4: Bring to a Boil and Add Sausage
Increase the heat to high and bring the soup to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and gently add the bite-sized pieces of Johnsonville Beef Kielbasa sausage to the pot. The sausage will release its savory flavors as it simmers, enhancing the overall richness of the soup.
Step 5: Simmer and Finish
Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the soup simmer gently for 1 hour. This long simmering time allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, creating a harmonious and well-balanced soup. After an hour, stir in the 2 tablespoons of brown sugar. This touch of sweetness balances the tanginess of the sauerkraut and the saltiness of the sausage. If desired, sprinkle some smoked black pepper over the soup for an extra layer of flavor. Serve hot and enjoy the comforting warmth of this hearty soup.
COOKING Rating:
Easy
Serving Suggestions:
This Sauerkraut Sausage Soup is a hearty and complete meal on its own, but it also pairs well with a variety of accompaniments. Consider serving it with:
- Crusty bread or rolls for dipping into the flavorful broth.
- A dollop of sour cream or plain yogurt for added richness and tanginess.
- A sprinkle of fresh parsley or dill for a burst of freshness.
- A side salad with a light vinaigrette to complement the soup’s richness.
Tips:
- Adjust the Tanginess: If you prefer a milder flavor, rinse the sauerkraut before adding it to the soup.
- Spice It Up: For a spicier soup, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
- Use Different Sausage: Feel free to substitute the beef kielbasa with other types of sausage, such as smoked sausage, Italian sausage, or even chorizo.
- Add More Vegetables: You can add other vegetables like potatoes, parsnips, or turnips for added nutrition and flavor.
- Make It Vegetarian: Omit the sausage and use vegetable broth to create a vegetarian version of this soup. Add a can of cannellini beans for added protein.
- Slow Cooker Option: Combine all the ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
- Storage: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Prep Time: 15 minutes Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Nutritional Information: (Approximately, per serving) Note: Nutritional information can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
Calories: 350 Protein: 15g Sodium: 800mg
Conclusion:
This Sauerkraut Sausage Soup is a flavorful and satisfying dish that is perfect for any time of year. With its tangy sauerkraut, savory sausage, and hearty vegetables, this soup is sure to become a family favorite. The easy-to-follow recipe and customizable ingredients make it a versatile option for any cook. So gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and enjoy a warm and comforting bowl of Sauerkraut Sausage Soup!
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use different types of sausage in this soup? Absolutely! While the recipe calls for Johnsonville Beef Kielbasa, you can easily substitute it with other types of sausage such as smoked sausage, Italian sausage, or even chorizo. Each type of sausage will impart a slightly different flavor profile to the soup, so feel free to experiment and find your favorite combination.
- Is it necessary to rinse the sauerkraut before adding it to the soup? Whether or not to rinse the sauerkraut is a matter of personal preference. If you prefer a milder, less tangy flavor, rinsing the sauerkraut can help remove some of the excess acidity. However, if you enjoy the strong, tangy flavor of sauerkraut, you can add it directly to the soup without rinsing.
- Can I make this soup in a slow cooker? Yes, this soup is very easy to make in a slow cooker. Simply combine all the ingredients in the slow cooker, stir well, and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. This is a great option for busy weeknights when you want a hearty and delicious meal waiting for you when you get home.
- Can I freeze this soup for later? Yes, this soup freezes very well. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or bags. Be sure to leave some room at the top of the container to allow for expansion during freezing. The soup can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. When ready to eat, thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
- What can I add to the soup to make it even more flavorful? There are many ways to enhance the flavor of this soup. Consider adding a bay leaf or two during the simmering process to infuse the soup with an extra layer of aroma. You can also add a splash of apple cider vinegar or a squeeze of lemon juice at the end of cooking to brighten the flavors. Some people also enjoy adding a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or dill just before serving.
