Cabbage Soup With Smoked Sausage

Hearty and comforting, this Cabbage Soup with Smoked Sausage is the perfect dish for a cozy meal. This recipe combines the robust flavors of smoked Kielbasa sausage with fresh vegetables and spices to create a rich and satisfying soup. Perfect for a family dinner or a cold day, this soup is both nutritious and delicious.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 1/2 tablespoon olive or vegetable oil
• 1 (16-ounce) package smoked Kielbasa sausage, cut into 1/4-inch slices
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 2 carrots, peeled and thinly sliced
• 2 corn on the cob, cut into large chunks
• 1 medium sweet onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small head green cabbage, chopped
• 1 (14.5-ounce) can chicken broth
• 1 1/2 cups water
• 1 chicken bouillon cube
• 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch cubes
• 1 tablespoon packed brown sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon caraway seeds, optional
• 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/3 cup heavy cream

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

1. Chop and Slice: Peel and thinly slice the carrots, chop the onion, mince the garlic, chop the cabbage, and cut the potatoes into 1/2-inch cubes.
2. Slice the Sausage: Cut the smoked Kielbasa sausage into 1/4-inch slices.
3. Corn on the Cob: Cut the corn on the cob into large chunks.

Step 2: Cook the Sausage

1. Heat Oil: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive or vegetable oil over medium heat.
2. Cook Sausage: Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the sausage from the pot and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté Vegetables

1. Melt Butter: In the same pot, melt the butter.
2. Add Vegetables: Add the chopped onion, sliced carrots, and minced garlic. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add Cabbage: Stir in the chopped cabbage and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, until the cabbage begins to wilt.

Step 4: Combine and Simmer

1. Add Broth and Water: Pour in the chicken broth and water. Stir to combine.
2. Add Potatoes and Corn: Add the cubed potatoes and corn chunks to the pot.
3. Season and Add Bouillon: Add the chicken bouillon cube, packed brown sugar, black pepper, caraway seeds (if using), and dried thyme. Stir to mix.
4. Simmer: Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for about 25-30 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.

Step 5: Finish the Soup

1. Add Sausage Back: Return the cooked sausage to the pot.
2. Stir in Cream: Stir in the heavy cream and let the soup heat through for an additional 5 minutes.
3. Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.

Step 6: Serve

1. Serve Hot: Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot.
2. Garnish: Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Cooking Notes and Variations

Tips for Success

• Brown the Sausage: Browning the sausage first adds depth to the flavor.
• Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh vegetables for the best taste and texture.

Variations

• Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
• Vegetarian: Omit the sausage and chicken broth, and use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
• Different Sausage: Use different types of sausage like Andouille for a different flavor profile.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use other types of sausage?

Yes, you can use different types of smoked sausage like Andouille, chorizo, or even Italian sausage to change the flavor profile.

2. Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, this soup can be made ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove over medium heat until warmed through.

3. Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, you can freeze this soup. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

4. Can I use a different type of cabbage?

Yes, you can use other types of cabbage such as Savoy or Napa cabbage. The cooking time may vary slightly.

5. What can I serve with this soup?

This hearty soup pairs well with crusty bread, a side salad, or a light sandwich.

This Cabbage Soup with Smoked Sausage is a hearty, comforting dish that is easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. With its rich flavors and nutritious ingredients, it is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy this delicious soup on a cold day or whenever you need a comforting meal. Happy cooking!