Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Hearty and Satisfying: Packed with protein from kielbasa and fiber from cabbage, it’s a filling meal.
- Simple Ingredients: Made with everyday kitchen staples, it’s budget-friendly and accessible.
- Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a warm meal in no time.
- Customizable: Adjust spices and add your favorite vegetables or grains for a unique twist.
- Great for Leftovers: This soup tastes even better the next day!
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 lb kielbasa, sliced
- 1 small head of cabbage, chopped
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
Directions
- In a large pot, heat a bit of oil over medium heat. Add the sliced kielbasa and cook until browned. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pot, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté until softened and fragrant.
- Add the chopped cabbage and cook for a few minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Return the kielbasa to the pot and pour in enough broth or water to cover the ingredients. Season with salt, pepper, and your favorite spices.
- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20-30 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender.
- Serve hot with crusty bread or crackers for a complete meal.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: This recipe makes about 4-6 servings.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
Variations
- Add Vegetables: Include carrots, potatoes, or celery for added texture and nutrition.
- Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes or smoked paprika for a kick.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the kielbasa with plant-based sausage or beans for a meatless version.
- Grains: Add rice, barley, or quinoa for extra heartiness.
- Herbs: Garnish with fresh dill, parsley, or thyme for an herby finish.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm the soup on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave until heated through.
FAQs
1. Can I use turkey or chicken kielbasa instead?
Yes, turkey or chicken kielbasa works well as a lighter alternative.
2. What type of cabbage is best for this soup?
Green cabbage is ideal, but you can also use savoy or napa cabbage.
3. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. How can I make this soup more filling?
Add cooked potatoes, grains, or beans to make it heartier.
5. Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes, as long as the kielbasa and broth are gluten-free.
6. Can I use pre-shredded cabbage?
Absolutely, pre-shredded cabbage is a time-saver and works perfectly.
7. What kind of broth should I use?
Chicken broth or vegetable broth are great options for this soup.
8. Can I add tomatoes to this soup?
Yes, diced tomatoes or tomato paste can add a tangy flavor to the soup.
9. How do I keep the cabbage from becoming mushy?
Avoid overcooking; simmer the soup until the cabbage is just tender.
10. Can I prepare this soup ahead of time?
Yes, it’s a great make-ahead dish. The flavors deepen over time, making it even tastier the next day.
Conclusion
Kielbasa and Cabbage Soup is a cozy, nourishing recipe that’s easy to prepare and loved by all. With its hearty ingredients and comforting flavors, it’s the perfect dish for chilly nights or when you need a wholesome, satisfying meal. Try it today, and watch it become a family favorite!
Kielbasa and Cabbage Soup
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Kielbasa and Cabbage Soup is a hearty, comforting dish packed with smoky kielbasa, tender cabbage, and savory aromatics. Quick and easy to prepare, this one-pot meal is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners.
Ingredients
- 1 lb kielbasa, sliced
- 1 small head of cabbage, chopped
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Broth or water (enough to cover ingredients)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, fresh herbs
Instructions
- Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Brown the sliced kielbasa, remove, and set aside.
- In the same pot, sauté onion and garlic until softened and fragrant.
- Add chopped cabbage and cook for a few minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Return the kielbasa to the pot, then pour in enough broth or water to cover. Season with salt, pepper, and optional spices.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-30 minutes, until the cabbage is tender.
- Serve hot with crusty bread or crackers.
Notes
- Add carrots, potatoes, or celery for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Use chicken or vegetable broth for different flavor profiles.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Eastern European-Inspired