Embrace Comfort with Cabbage Soup With Smoked Sausage: A Hearty Delight
Are you in search of a warm and comforting meal that’s both satisfying and flavorful? Look no further than Cabbage Soup With Smoked Sausage! This hearty soup is filled with wholesome ingredients like smoked sausage, cabbage, carrots, and potatoes, simmered together in a savory broth until tender and delicious. Perfect for chilly evenings or anytime you need a nourishing meal, Cabbage Soup With Smoked Sausage is sure to become a staple in your recipe repertoire. Join us as we dive into the details of this delightful dish and learn how to make it from scratch in your own kitchen.
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 ears of corn, 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:
- Sauté the Sausage: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive or vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the sliced smoked sausage and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the sausage from the pot and set it aside.
- Prepare the Vegetables: In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced carrots, corn chunks, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender, about 8-10 minutes.
- Add the Cabbage: Stir in the chopped cabbage and cook for an additional 5 minutes, until slightly wilted.
- Simmer the Soup: Pour in the chicken broth and water, then add the chicken bouillon cube, cubed potatoes, brown sugar, black pepper, caraway seeds (if using), and dried thyme. Bring the soup to a simmer and cook, uncovered, for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
- Finish with Cream: Stir in the heavy cream and cooked smoked sausage, and continue to simmer for an additional 5 minutes to heat through. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the Cabbage Soup With Smoked Sausage into bowls and serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy this comforting and nourishing soup as a satisfying meal on its own or paired with crusty bread for dipping.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the soup for a spicy kick.
- Vegetarian Option: Omit the smoked sausage and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version of this soup. You can also add extra vegetables like bell peppers, celery, or zucchini for added flavor and texture.
Keto and Low Carb Versions:
- Keto Version: To make a keto-friendly version of Cabbage Soup With Smoked Sausage, omit the potatoes and substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or almond milk. Be sure to check the carb count on the smoked sausage and chicken broth to ensure they fit within your macros.
- Low Carb Version: Reduce the amount of potatoes or omit them altogether to lower the carb content of the soup. You can also use cauliflower florets as a low-carb alternative to potatoes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use a different type of sausage in this soup? A: Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite type of sausage, such as Italian sausage, chorizo, or Andouille sausage, for a different flavor profile.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers of this soup? A: Yes, this soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to airtight containers or freezer bags and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Q: Can I make this soup in advance? A: Yes, you can make this soup ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat it on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
Q: Is this soup gluten-free? A: Yes, this soup is naturally gluten-free. Just be sure to check the labels of your chicken broth and smoked sausage to ensure they do not contain gluten or any gluten-containing ingredients.
In conclusion, Cabbage Soup With Smoked Sausage is a comforting and flavorful dish that’s perfect for warming up on chilly days or enjoying any time you need a nourishing meal. With its hearty combination of smoked sausage, tender vegetables, and savory broth, this soup is sure to satisfy your hunger and soothe your soul. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or simply craving a cozy dinner at home, this recipe is a winner every time. So why wait? Gather your ingredients and start simmering a pot of deliciousness today!
