This Old Fashioned Potato, Cabbage, and Kielbasa Soup is a hearty, rustic dish perfect for cold days when you need a warm, filling meal. The combination of tender potatoes, savory kielbasa, and sweet cabbage simmered in a flavorful broth makes this a classic comfort food that’s easy to prepare.
1. Old Fashioned Potato, Cabbage, and Kielbasa Soup
Ingredients
- 12 oz Kielbasa sausage, sliced into rounds
- 1 medium head of green cabbage, cored and chopped
- 4-5 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2-3 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 3-4 garlic cloves, minced
- 6 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter (for sautéing)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (for a tangy finish)
Instructions
Step 1. Brown the Kielbasa
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil (or butter) over medium heat.
Add the sliced kielbasa and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned on both sides. Remove the kielbasa from the pot and set aside.
Step 2. Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pot, add the onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent.
Next, add the garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Then stir in the carrots and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
Step 3. Add the Potatoes and Broth
Add the diced potatoes, thyme, and bay leaf to the pot.
Pour in the chicken broth (or vegetable broth) and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer, covered, for 10-15 minutes, or until the potatoes begin to soften.
Step 4. Add the Cabbage and Kielbasa
Stir in the chopped cabbage and return the browned kielbasa to the pot.
Simmer the soup for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender and the potatoes are fully cooked.
Step 5. Season and Adjust
Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper to taste. If you want to add a smoky depth of flavor, stir in smoked paprika.
If you prefer a tangy finish, add 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar.
Step 6. Serve
Remove the bay leaf before serving.
Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot, optionally garnishing with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of cracked pepper.
2. Tips for Perfect Potato, Cabbage, and Kielbasa Soup
Use Russet or Yukon Gold Potatoes: These types of potatoes work best in this soup because they hold their shape well and add a creamy texture.
Don’t Overcook the Cabbage: Add the cabbage toward the end of cooking to keep it tender but not mushy.
Brown the Kielbasa: Browning the kielbasa adds a smoky flavor and caramelizes the sausage, which enhances the overall taste of the soup.
3. Serving Suggestions
Crusty Bread: Serve with a slice of buttered crusty bread or rye bread for dipping.
With Mustard: For a traditional Eastern European touch, serve the soup with a dollop of Dijon or whole-grain mustard on the side.
Top with Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or dill adds a bright, fresh flavor to each bowl.
4. Variations
Add Beans: Stir in a can of white beans or kidney beans for added protein.
Use Smoked Sausage or Ham: If you don’t have kielbasa, you can substitute smoked sausage or even cubed ham for a similar flavor.
Make it Creamy: For a richer soup, stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream or sour cream at the end of cooking.
5. How to Store and Reheat
Refrigerator: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days.
Reheating: Reheat the soup on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, or in the microwave for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway.
6. Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes! To make this soup in a slow cooker:
- Brown the kielbasa in a skillet before adding it to the slow cooker.
- Add all the vegetables, broth, and seasonings to the slow cooker, and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or on HIGH for 3-4 hours.
- Add the cabbage in the last hour of cooking to prevent it from overcooking.
Can I use red cabbage instead of green cabbage?
Absolutely! Red cabbage will work just as well, though keep in mind that it will give the soup a slightly different color and a more pronounced flavor.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the kielbasa and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can add extra beans, tofu, or tempeh to give the soup more protein and substance.
This Old Fashioned Potato, Cabbage, and Kielbasa Soup is the perfect meal for when you need something hearty, warm, and full of flavor. It’s a simple, one-pot recipe that delivers on both taste and satisfaction. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner or meal-prepping for the week, this soup is a delicious and comforting classic!
