## Hearty Kielbasa and Sauerkraut Soup
**Total Time:** 55 minutes
## Introduction
There’s something deeply satisfying about a bowl of warm, hearty soup, and the Kielbasa and Sauerkraut Soup delivers just that. The rich flavor from the sausage and the tanginess from the sauerkraut creates a perfect balance of taste in every sip.
## Why Make This Recipe
This Kielbasa and Sauerkraut Soup is a comforting meal that combines the fulfilling umami of Kielbasa sausage with the unique taste of sauerkraut. If you’re looking to try something different, or simply a lover of continental cuisine, this is a must-try recipe.
## How to Make Hearty Kielbasa and Sauerkraut Soup
### Ingredients :
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– 1 lb kielbasa sausage, sliced
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 3 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup water
– 2 cups sauerkraut, drained
– 3 medium potatoes, peeled and chopped
– 1 tsp caraway seeds
– 1 bay leaf
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
### Directions :
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the sliced kielbasa and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Remove the sausage from the pot and set aside.
4. In the same pot, sauté the chopped onion and garlic until the onion is translucent.
5. Add the chicken broth, water, sauerkraut, chopped potatoes, caraway seeds, bay leaf, and browned kielbasa to the pot. Bring to a boil.
6. Reduce the heat and let the soup simmer, covered, for about 30 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
7. Before serving, season with salt and pepper to taste and remove the bay leaf.
8. Serve hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley.
## How to Serve Hearty Kielbasa and Sauerkraut Soup
Serve this scrumptious soup hot, garnished with fresh parsley, and accompanied by crusty bread on the side.
## How to Store Hearty Kielbasa and Sauerkraut Soup
Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To enjoy it again, just heat it on the stove over medium heat.
## Tips to Make Hearty Kielbasa and Sauerkraut Soup
Drain the sauerkraut well before adding it to the soup to prevent it from becoming too tangy. For a thicker soup, you can blend half of the soup and then combine it back with the non-blended soup.
## Variation
If you prefer a vegetarian option, you can replace the Kielbasa sausage with mushrooms or tofu.
## FAQs
### Q1: Can I use a different type of sausage?
Yes, you can replace the Kielbasa with any smoked sausage of your choice.
### Q2: I don’t have caraway seeds, what can I use instead?
You can substitute the caraway seeds with fennel seeds or cumin.
### Q3: Can I freeze this soup?
This soup can be frozen, but for best results, do this without the potatoes as they can change texture when frozen and reheated.