Are you craving a comforting, flavorful soup that’s both easy to make and incredibly satisfying? Look no further than this Polska Kielbasa Potato Soup! This recipe delivers a rich, creamy broth brimming with tender potatoes, savory kielbasa, and aromatic herbs. It's the perfect quick dinner idea for a chilly evening, a delicious dish to warm the soul, and a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its finest. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this easy recipe is guaranteed to impress.
Ingredients: You'll Need These Simple Items
This recipe uses readily available ingredients, making it perfect for a weeknight meal.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 pound Polska kielbasa, sliced (about 1 inch thick)
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried marjoram
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or milk (optional, for extra creaminess)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions: Let's Get Cooking!
-
Sauté the Vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. This builds a flavorful base for your soup.
-
Brown the Kielbasa: Add the sliced kielbasa to the pot and cook until lightly browned, about 3-5 minutes. Don't overcrowd the pot; work in batches if necessary. This step adds depth of flavor to your delicious dish.
-
Simmer the Soup: Pour in the chicken broth and add the cubed potatoes, thyme, and marjoram. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
-
Season and Finish: Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, stir in the heavy cream or milk for extra richness. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. This step ensures your healthy meal is perfectly seasoned.
-
Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve hot with crusty bread for dipping – the perfect complement to this hearty soup.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results
- For a richer flavor: Use homemade chicken broth instead of store-bought.
- Don't overcook the potatoes: Overcooked potatoes will become mushy. Aim for tender but still slightly firm.
- Adjust the spices: Feel free to adjust the amount of thyme and marjoram to your liking. A pinch of garlic powder or onion powder can also enhance the flavor.
Variations: Make it Your Own!
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Heartier Soup: Add other vegetables like diced turnips, parsnips, or green beans.
- Vegetarian Option: Omit the kielbasa and substitute with hearty mushrooms or lentils for a vegetarian-friendly version.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, without cream):
This information is an estimate and may vary depending on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 250
- Protein: Approximately 15g
- Fat: Approximately 10g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 30g
This Polska Kielbasa Potato Soup is a fantastic example of simple, yet flavorful, healthy meals that are easy to prepare. It's a great recipe to add to your collection of best recipes and a surefire way to impress your family and friends with your homemade cooking skills. Enjoy!