Kielbasi and Cabbage Soup

Here’s a simple, hearty Kielbasa and Cabbage Soup recipe—comfort food that’s easy to make and great for leftovers 🍲

Ingredients

• 1 lb kielbasa sausage, sliced into rounds

• 1 small onion, diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 3–4 cups green cabbage, chopped

• 2 carrots, sliced

• 2 medium potatoes, diced (optional but filling)

• 6 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tsp paprika

• ½ tsp black pepper

• Salt to taste

• Optional: 1 bay leaf, a pinch of red pepper flakes

Instructions

1. Brown the kielbasa
   Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add kielbasa and cook until lightly browned. Remove and set aside.

2. Sauté the aromatics
   In the same pot, add onion and cook until soft (about 3–4 minutes). Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.

3. Add vegetables
   Stir in carrots, potatoes, and cabbage. Cook for 2–3 minutes to slightly soften.

4. Simmer
   Add broth, paprika, pepper, bay leaf (if using), and a little salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.

5. Finish the soup
   Add the kielbasa back in. Simmer uncovered for 20–25 minutes, until vegetables are tender.

6. Taste & serve
   Adjust seasoning, remove bay leaf, and serve hot.

Optional Variations

• Add a can of diced tomatoes for a slightly tangy flavor

• Use smoked kielbasa for extra depth

• Serve with crusty bread or rye toast

If you want, I can make this a slow-cooker version, a budget-friendly version, or adjust it for fewer ingredients