Name: Easy Sauerkraut Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Eastern European
Ingredients: 2 cups sauerkraut (rinsed if a milder tang is preferred); 3 medium potatoes, diced; 1 onion, diced; 2 carrots, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth; 1/2 cup smoked sausage or bacon, chopped (optional); 2 tbsp tomato paste; 1 tsp paprika; 1 bay leaf; 1/2 tsp caraway seeds; Salt and black pepper to taste; 1 tbsp olive oil or butter; Fresh parsley, for garnish

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re a fan of tangy, comforting soups, this Easy Sauerkraut Soup will quickly become a favorite. It’s a warming dish that combines the probiotic goodness of sauerkraut with hearty ingredients, creating a satisfying meal perfect for chilly days. This soup is simple to prepare, full of bold flavors, and offers great versatility—you can customize it with various meats, vegetables, or seasonings to suit your preferences. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to enjoy the health benefits of fermented foods in a delicious and nourishing way.

Ingredients

Sauerkraut
Potatoes
Onion
Carrots
Garlic
Smoked sausage or bacon (optional)
Chicken or vegetable broth
Tomato paste
Paprika
Bay leaf
Caraway seeds
Salt
Black pepper
Olive oil or butter
Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Directions

Prepare the ingredients – Rinse the sauerkraut if you prefer a milder tang, then chop it into smaller pieces. Dice the potatoes, onion, carrots, and garlic.
Sauté the aromatics – Heat olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onions and garlic, cooking until fragrant and translucent.
Cook the meat (if using) – If you’re adding smoked sausage or bacon, cook it in the pot until slightly browned.
Add the vegetables – Stir in the carrots and potatoes, cooking for a couple of minutes to enhance their flavor.
Incorporate the sauerkraut – Add the sauerkraut to the pot, followed by tomato paste, paprika, and caraway seeds. Stir everything together.
Pour in the broth – Add the chicken or vegetable broth along with the bay leaf. Bring the soup to a gentle simmer.
Simmer – Let the soup cook for about 30-40 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the flavors meld together.
Season to taste – Add salt and black pepper as needed. Remove the bay leaf before serving.
Garnish and serve – Ladle the soup into bowls, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and enjoy hot.

Variations

Vegetarian Option – Skip the meat and use vegetable broth for a completely plant-based version.
Creamy Twist – Stir in a bit of heavy cream or sour cream for a richer, creamier texture.
Extra Protein – Add shredded chicken, ham, or beans for additional protein.
Spicy Kick – Include a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced chili pepper for some heat.
Milder Flavor – Rinse the sauerkraut before adding it to reduce the tanginess.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration – Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing – Freeze in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating – Warm on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in short intervals until heated through.

FAQs

How can I make this soup less tangy?

You can rinse the sauerkraut before adding it to the soup, which will reduce its sourness while keeping the flavor intact.

Can I use fresh cabbage instead of sauerkraut?

Yes, but it will change the flavor profile. Fresh cabbage will lack the tangy, fermented taste that defines this soup.

What type of sausage works best?

Smoked sausage, kielbasa, or bratwurst complement the tangy flavors well, but any hearty sausage will do.

Is this soup good for gut health?

Yes! Sauerkraut is rich in probiotics, which support digestive health. Just be mindful that prolonged cooking may reduce probiotic benefits.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Absolutely. Add all ingredients to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

Does this soup thicken as it sits?

Yes, the potatoes and starches will naturally thicken the soup over time. Add more broth when reheating if needed.

What’s the best broth to use?

Chicken or vegetable broth works well. If you want a richer flavor, use homemade broth.

Can I add other vegetables?

Definitely! Bell peppers, celery, or mushrooms can add more depth to the soup.

What can I serve with sauerkraut soup?

A slice of crusty bread, rye bread, or a simple side salad pairs well.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes, this soup actually tastes better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.

Conclusion

This Easy Sauerkraut Soup is a fantastic way to enjoy a hearty, nourishing, and flavorful meal with minimal effort. Whether you love tangy flavors or are looking for a comforting dish packed with gut-friendly benefits, this soup delivers on all fronts. Give it a try and enjoy a bowl of warmth and goodness!

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