Description
This Easy Sauerkraut Soup is a tangy, hearty, and comforting dish packed with probiotics. Made with sauerkraut, potatoes, and smoked sausage, it’s simple to prepare and perfect for chilly days.
Ingredients
Scale
- 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
Instructions
- Prepare the ingredients – Rinse and chop the sauerkraut if needed. 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 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, tomato paste, paprika, and caraway seeds. Stir to combine.
- Pour in the broth – Add the chicken or vegetable broth and the bay leaf. Bring the soup to a gentle simmer.
- Simmer – Cook for 30-40 minutes until the potatoes are tender and 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.
Notes
- Vegetarian Option – Skip the meat and use vegetable broth for a completely plant-based version.
- Creamy Twist – Stir in heavy cream or sour cream for a richer texture.
- Extra Protein – Add shredded chicken, ham, or beans for additional protein.
- Spicy Kick – Include red pepper flakes or a diced chili pepper for some heat.
- Milder Flavor – Rinse the sauerkraut before adding it to reduce tanginess.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Eastern European
Keywords: sauerkraut soup, easy soup recipe, fermented food recipe, Eastern European soup, hearty winter soup