Kielbasa And Cabbage Soup

Ingredients:

5 small carrots, diced

5 stalks of celery, diced

1 large Spanish onion

3 heaping tbsp of fresh garlic

5-6 cups chopped cabbage

3 large potatoes

1tbsp dried oregano

1 tbsp Italian seasoning

1/2 cup fresh chopped flat leaf parsley

Crushed red to your liking

4-5 tbsp (maybe) of chicken or pork bouillon

One small ring smoked kielbasa, diced

Small roll of hot Italian sausage (preferably gianelli)

Instructions:

Brown your Italian sausage to render the fat.

I broke mine up so it crumbled but you can leave yours and chunks if you like.

Once browned, remove from pot and set aside.

In the sausage fat, cook down your mirepoix until your onions become translucent.

If your sausage did not render enough fat, add a few tablespoons of good olive oil.

Add your cabbage, fresh garlic, oregano, Italian seasoning, salt and pepper to taste.

This is where I add my bullion, to saute my vegetables in it.

After a few minutes, add water or stock. I think I added 10 to 15 cups? I’m really not sure.

Once it comes to a soft boil, add your potatoes and cook until tender.

At the very end, add in your cooked sausage crumbles, kielbasa chunks, crushed red pepper and fresh chopped parsley.

Nutrition Information:

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, based on approximately 6 servings):

Frequently Asked Questions:

How can I customize the spice level in Kielbasa and Cabbage Soup?

Adjust the amount of crushed red pepper according to your spice preferences.

Start with a smaller amount and add more gradually until you achieve the desired heat.

Can I make Kielbasa and Cabbage Soup vegetarian?

Yes, you can omit the kielbasa and Italian sausage, and use vegetable bouillon to make a delicious vegetarian version.

Is it necessary to brown the Italian sausage before adding it to the soup?

Browning the Italian sausage enhances its flavor and texture, but you can choose to skip this step if you prefer a lighter version.

How do I ensure the potatoes cook evenly in the soup?

Cut the potatoes into uniform sizes to ensure even cooking.

Check for doneness by piercing them with a fork; they should be tender.

Can I use a different type of sausage in this soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with various types of sausage based on your preferences, like smoked sausage or chorizo.

What’s the purpose of using both dried oregano and Italian seasoning?

This combination adds depth to the flavor profile.

Italian seasoning typically contains a mix of herbs like basil, oregano, thyme, and rosemary.

How can I make this soup lower in sodium?

Opt for low-sodium or no-sodium-added bouillon and sausage.

Adjust salt levels to taste, and consider adding herbs and spices for flavor.

Can I prepare Kielbasa and Cabbage Soup in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker.

Brown the sausage separately, then combine all ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

Is it okay to make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, the flavors often improve if made ahead.

Reheat gently on the stove, adding a bit of water or broth if needed.

Can I freeze Kielbasa and Cabbage Soup?

While cabbage can change texture upon freezing, the soup is generally freezer-friendly.

Cool it completely before transferring to airtight containers, leaving some space for expansion.