Embrace the warmth of home-cooked comfort food with this delightful Kielbasa Potato Soup. Perfect for chilly evenings, this hearty dish combines savory kielbasa sausage with tender potatoes and fresh vegetables, creating a symphony of flavors that will warm your heart and soul. Easy to prepare and packed with nourishing ingredients, this soup is ideal for family dinners or as a cozy meal for one. Get ready to indulge in a bowl of pure comfort!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450 g) kielbasa sausage, sliced into thin rounds
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 4 cups (1 L) chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup (240 mL) milk or cream
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Sauté the Kielbasa:
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced kielbasa and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the sausage from the pot and set aside.
- Cook the Vegetables:
- In the same pot, add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables start to soften. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring frequently.
- Add the Potatoes and Seasonings:
- Stir in the diced potatoes, thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the potatoes to absorb the flavors.
- Pour in the Broth:
- Add the chicken or vegetable broth to the pot, bringing it to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and cover. Let it cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
- Finish with Cream:
- Once the potatoes are cooked, stir in the milk or cream and return the browned kielbasa to the pot. Heat through for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Ladle the warm soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve with crusty bread for dipping and enjoy the comforting flavors!