# KIELBASA AND SAUERKRAUT SOUP WITH PARMESAN AND BACON
*Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6*
## Introduction
Experience true comfort food with this flavorful Kielbasa and Sauerkraut Soup with Parmesan and Bacon. The sourness of the sauerkraut complements the smoky kielbasa and bacon, with the rich parmesan rounding up the perfect hearty meal!
## Why make this Recipe
Soup is always a good option when you want a warm, comforting meal that’s easy to prepare. This Kielbasa and Sauerkraut soup opens a unique twist by incorporating acid complexity with sauerkraut on a well balanced creamy flavor of parmesan and bacon. Be captivated by this recipe’s superb play on different textures and flavors
## How to make Kielbasa and Sauerkraut Soup with Parmesan and Bacon
### Ingredients :
– 1 lb kielbasa, sliced
– 1 cup cooked bacon bits
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 cups sauerkraut, drained
– 1 tsp caraway seeds (optional)
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley for garnish
### Directions :
1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the sliced kielbasa and sauté until brown. Remove the cooked kielbasa and set aside.
2. In the same pot, sauté the diced onion and garlic until the onion becomes translucent.
3. Pour chicken broth, sauerkraut, and caraway seeds into the pot. Increase the heat to boil, then reduce to simmer.
4. Return the cooked kielbasa into the soup mix along with the bacon bits. Allow the mix to simmer for 15 minutes.
5. Stir in the grated parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve the soup in individual bowls, garnished with fresh parsley.
## How to Serve Kielbasa and Sauerkraut Soup with Parmesan and Bacon
Once garnished with fresh parsley, serve this hearty soup hot. Ideal for dinner or a filling lunch, its deep flavors paired wonderfully with fresh crusty bread or a simple green salad.
## How to Store Kielbasa and Sauerkraut Soup with Parmesan and Bacon
Leftover soup can be stored in a refrigerator for up to three days in an air-tight container. For prolonged storage, place the cooled soup in a freezer-safe container and store in the freezer for three months.
## Tips to Make Kielbasa and Sauerkraut Soup with Parmesan and Bacon
Remember that patience is key for soup. Allow the soup to simmer to let the distinct flavors meld and blossom. Adding browned kielbasa will also add a smokiness that enhances the overall taste.
## Variations
Substitute bacon with healthier options such as turkey bacon or smoked tempeh. Vegan versions can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth and skip the kielbasa and bacon.
## FAQs
1. Is there an alternative for kielbasa?
Yes, any smoked or fully cooked sausage would work. For a vegetarian alternative, use a vegetarian sausage.
2. Can the soup be vegan?
To make the soup vegan, simply substitute the kielbasa with a vegan sausage, the chicken broth with vegetable broth, skip the bacon bits and cheese.
3. What type of sauerkraut should I use?
Both canned and fresh sauerkraut work well. Just ensure to drain the sauerkraut before adding it to the soup.