Cabbage Soup with Smoked Sausage is a hearty, flavorful dish perfect for warming up on a cold day. This soup combines the smokiness of kielbasa sausage with the earthiness of cabbage and potatoes, and the sweetness of carrots and corn. A touch of cream adds richness, making it a comforting meal that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare.

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:
- Brown the Sausage:
- Heat the oil in a Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add the sliced kielbasa sausage and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- Add the butter to the grease left in the Dutch oven.
- Add the carrots, onions, and corn. Cook over medium heat until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Wilt the Cabbage:
- Add the chopped cabbage to the pot. Cook and stir for 1-2 minutes, until the cabbage starts to wilt.
- Simmer the Soup:
- Add the potatoes, chicken broth, water, bouillon cube, and brown sugar to the pot.
- Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- Finish the Soup:
- Add the browned sausage back to the pot.
- Stir in the black pepper, caraway seeds (if using), thyme, and heavy cream.
- Bring the soup back to a simmer and cook for an additional 5-10 minutes, until everything is heated through.
- Serve:
- Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot. Enjoy!
Description and Tips:
- Rich and Hearty: This soup is a complete meal with a balance of protein, vegetables, and starch, all simmered together to create a rich and hearty dish.
- Flavor Enhancements: The smoked kielbasa sausage adds a deep, smoky flavor that permeates the broth, while the cream adds a smooth, rich finish.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve with a side of crusty bread to soak up the flavorful broth, or enjoy it as is for a comforting bowl of goodness.
- Storage: This soup keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
- Optional Additions: For an extra kick, you can add a dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. If you prefer a thicker soup, mash some of the potatoes before adding the sausage and cream.
This Cabbage Soup with Smoked Sausage is not only delicious but also versatile, allowing for easy adjustments to suit your taste preferences. Enjoy a warm, comforting bowl any day of the week!
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