This warm and hearty Potato and Sauerkraut Soup mixes creamy potatoes and tangy sauerkraut for a cozy meal. It’s simple to make and perfect for chilly days!
Every spoonful is a delightful taste of comfort. I love pairing it with some crusty bread for dipping—it’s a match made in heaven! 🍞💖
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Potatoes: I recommend using Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes for their creamy texture. If you’re looking to cut carbs, cauliflower can be a great substitute. Just ensure they’re well blended for a creamy consistency.
Sauerkraut: Traditional sauerkraut adds a tangy flavor. If you’re not a fan, you can use pickled cabbage or even kimchi for a spicy twist! Just rinse them as you would sauerkraut to reduce the acidity.
Smoked Sausage/Kielbasa: I love using smoked sausage for its richness. If you prefer a lighter option, turkey sausage or a meat alternative like tofu or tempeh can work well. Make sure to season accordingly, as they may lack the same smoky flavor.
Heavy Cream/Sour Cream: Heavy cream gives it a lush texture, but for a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or plain yogurt instead of sour cream. If dairy-free, coconut milk can also add creaminess.
How Do I Get the Best Flavor from the Onions and Garlic?
Getting good flavor from your onion and garlic is all about cooking them right. Start by sautéing the onions in butter or oil until they turn translucent—this usually takes about 5 minutes. Then, add the garlic and cook for just 1 more minute. This step releases their natural sweetness, creating a flavorful base for your soup.
- Use medium heat to avoid burning.
- Keep stirring to ensure even cooking.
- Don’t rush this process; it’s key to a rich soup.
With these tips, your Potato and Sauerkraut Soup will be irresistibly tasty and comforting! Enjoy every warm, creamy bowl!
How to Make Potato and Sauerkraut Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 4 large medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 cups sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
- 1 smoked sausage or kielbasa, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream or sour cream
- 2 tbsp butter or oil
- 1 tsp dried marjoram (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Potato and Sauerkraut Soup will take you about 10 minutes to prepare and around 30 minutes to cook. In total, you’re looking at about 40 minutes from start to finishing up your warm, hearty bowl of soup!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large pot, heat the butter or oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion. Sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions become translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until it smells super fragrant.
2. Brown the Sausage:
Add the smoked sausage (or kielbasa) pieces to the pot. Cook them for about 4-5 minutes, stirring, until they are lightly browned. This will add incredible flavor to your soup!
3. Combine the Main Ingredients:
Now it’s time to add the diced potatoes and sauerkraut into the pot. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and give everything a good stir to combine all those beautiful flavors.
4. Cook the Soup:
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once it’s bubbling, reduce the heat and let it simmer uncovered for about 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when you poke them with a fork.
5. Add Cream and Season:
Stir in the heavy cream or sour cream to make your soup nice and creamy. If you’re using dried marjoram, sprinkle that in too! Heat everything through, but be careful not to let it boil again.
6. Final Seasoning:
Give your soup a taste and add salt and pepper as needed to bring out all the flavors.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve warm and enjoy this comforting meal!
This soup is creamy and tangy, with the sauerkraut adding a lovely bright acidity that balances perfectly with the rich potatoes and smoky sausage. It’s the perfect comfort food for cold days! Enjoy every cozy bite!
Can I Use Different Types of Sausage?
Absolutely! While smoked sausage or kielbasa adds a great flavor, you can use any sausage you like, such as turkey sausage, chicken sausage, or even vegetarian options. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time if needed, as some sausages might require different preparation.
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this soup vegetarian by omitting the sausage and using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You could also add some beans for protein or include extra vegetables for added nutrients!
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave. Just be careful not to boil it again, as this might affect the creamy texture.
Can I Freeze This Soup?
Yes, this soup freezes quite well! Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and warm it gently on the stove.
