Are you looking for a delicious, comforting, and healthy meal that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further! This Cabbage Kielbasa Soup recipe is a perfect example of a quick dinner idea that's packed with flavor and nutrients. It's a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its best, transforming simple ingredients into a truly satisfying and delicious dish. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, and it’s easily adaptable to your taste preferences. Get ready to enjoy this flavorful and satisfying soup!
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound kielbasa sausage, sliced (choose your favorite kind!)
- 1 medium head of green cabbage, chopped
- 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 bay leaf
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Sauté Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Brown the Kielbasa: Add the sliced kielbasa sausage to the pot and cook, stirring occasionally, until lightly browned. This step adds depth of flavor to the soup.
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Add Cabbage and Broth: Stir in the chopped cabbage, chicken broth, diced tomatoes (undrained), thyme, salt, pepper, and bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a boil.
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Simmer to Perfection: Reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
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Serve and Enjoy: Remove the bay leaf before serving. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. This hearty soup is perfect served with a crusty bread for dipping.
Cooking Tips for the Best Cabbage Kielbasa Soup:
- Don't overcrowd the pot: Ensure there's enough space for the cabbage to cook evenly. If necessary, cook the cabbage in batches.
- Adjust seasonings to your taste: Feel free to add more salt, pepper, or thyme depending on your preference. You could also experiment with other herbs and spices like caraway seeds or paprika.
- For a thicker soup: If you prefer a thicker consistency, you can mash some of the cooked cabbage against the side of the pot before serving. Alternatively, a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) can be stirred in during the last few minutes of cooking.
Variations:
- Spicy Cabbage Kielbasa Soup: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Potato Cabbage Kielbasa Soup: Add 2-3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced, along with the cabbage for a heartier soup.
- Bean Cabbage Kielbasa Soup: Include a can of your favorite beans (kidney beans, great northern beans, or cannellini beans) for added protein and fiber.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: Approximately 15-20g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 20-25g
This Cabbage Kielbasa Soup recipe is a simple yet satisfying dish that's perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal. It’s a healthy and delicious option, representing the best of easy recipes and homemade cooking. Enjoy!